A Proud Father Story

Yesterday my youngest son William was in a Winter Haven, Florida 7-11 Store, getting a soda. A local police officer was also getting a soda when some guy, apparently mentally unstable and without notice or provocation, jumped the police officer near my son. The attacker was able to land repeated blows to the officer's head as they got into a scuffle.

My son saw, assessed the situation and realized that the officer was having problems getting control of the attacker as he repeated hit the police officer’s head.

William, is currently a crewman on the Coast Guard Search and Rescue helicopters. Prior to his assignment at USCG Air Station Clearwater, he received extensive drug interdiction and ship boarding training when he first served on the USCG Cutter Alert in Astoria, Oregon.

My son utilized these skills to help the police officer get control of the attacker. As the attack continued, William came around the attacker's back and got control his arms to help prevent or limit the attacker’s ability to keep punching the police officer.

Shortly, another police officer ran in the 7-11 store from outside. The second officer was able to Taser the attacker as all three men wrestled with the attacker.

Of course I am very proud of my son for coming to the immediate aid of the Winter Haven Officer. He had to make an instant choice of either getting involved or not. William did get involved without thought of his personal safety even as others in the store did not.

Anytime - Anywhere

Not only do I feel strongly about my son’s actions but his action also reflects the heart and purpose of the U.S. Coast Guard. The tremendous training, skills, and confidence the Coast Guard instills in its young men and women  reflects their selfless desire to aid and assist beyond what is “expected” of them.

I truly believe that the Coast Guard helped give my son the confidence and the skills to step in and help out in this possibly life saving situation. Yes, this mission was not at sea or in the air but it accurately reflects the Coast Guards Air Station Clearwater Mission statement: “Anytime  — Anywhere” .

William’s actions also reflect a new generation of young men and women, in all branches of the military, who are the hope of America's future.

Thank you Lord for watching out and protecting everyone. Thank God and thank those who put their lives "on-the-line" everyday for our protection here and abroad.

Blessings,
Rev. Lawrence Blakeslee
Missionary to Europe and Asia

Larry's Email