Police officers often face danger and make sacrifices in the line of duty. They are tasked with bringing safety to dangerous places, security to the insecure, and stability to that which is unstable. This commitment sometimes leads to negative consequences, even when cops die doing what’s right.
Law Enforcement Today frequently covers line of duty deaths. The tragic loss of Lt. H. Jay Cullen and Trooper Berke Bates, who died in a police airship crash in Virginia, prompted reflection on the risks officers face daily. These men, like many others, were serving their communities when tragedy struck.
The biblical story of King David and Bathsheba provides a stark example of doing what’s right and suffering for it. Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband, was a loyal soldier. King David, after having an affair with Bathsheba, tried to cover up her resulting pregnancy by urging Uriah to spend time with his wife. However, Uriah, out of respect for his fellow soldiers at war and loyalty to the king, refused and slept in the servant quarters. This refusal foiled David’s plan. David then sent Uriah to the front lines to be killed in combat. Uriah perished doing so.
While the story highlights King David’s failings, it also underscores Uriah’s integrity. He did what was right, even though it cost him his life. While we hope our officers are never intentionally put in harm’s way, they often face deadly peril while “doing what is right.”
It’s important not to misinterpret the comparison between Cullen and Bates and Uriah. Their deaths are not similar in circumstance. However, their casualties highlight a simple truth: police officers are sometimes killed when doing the right thing. It’s an inherent risk of the profession. Facing Peril requires superior character.
Moreover, those who choose a career in law enforcement should be aware of the risks. There is an assumed risk when pinning the badge on your chest. If you’re unwilling to face peril, select another line of work. Uriah was a man of superior character. He honored his Lord by serving the king, even though David did not have his best interests at heart. King David didn’t understand the consequences of his evil ambition until his trusted mentor, Nathan, confronted him. The domino effect and grief caused by his actions would remain for generations.
Police officers sometimes suffer consequences from doing the right thing, just like Uriah. Leaders may allow trusted followers to get ambushed.
After preparing articles about Lt. Cullen and Trooper Bates, I attended a church service. During communion, I reflected on the sacrifices of law enforcement officers. I gave thanks for men and women willing to take light to dark places. I offered gratitude for cops who suffered when doing what’s right. Finally, I prayed that police officers would have the wisdom of Nathan, and boldly challenge people in authority willing to compromise their integrity for the sake of expediency, even if that means challenging the king.
Do not attribute anything from this article to leadership in Virginia, particularly regarding any new information asking questions about a “stand down” order. There is no latent undertone directed at them. I have no reason to doubt the professionalism of their organization. I wasn’t there, so I am not interjecting my opinion on the topic. This article just happened to be written following the tragic deaths of Cullen and Bates. But you could replace their names with any officers that have suffered a line of duty death.
Be safe!
(Photo: 2015 file photo courtesy Tech. Sgt. Dan Heaton)