September marks the start of Fall, signifying a time of change. Leaves begin to turn color, temperatures begin to chill, and children start thinking about costumes and Christmas (along with all the major retailers!). We begin taking out our sweaters, jeans, and jackets out of storage to wrap an added layer of protection to shield us from the cold. This reminds me of how our ballistic vests provide that extra layer of protection to all our heroes at work. It’s time to announce our Guardian Angel recipients for September and pray that our gift will help protect them each and every day. Help us congratulate the Guardian Angel winners!
Kody Fields | NOBTS Campus Police
Body armor, similar to carrying a firearm, represents my particular mindset. I believe those citizens who carry guns for defense should do so with a willingness to stand in the gap and protect those who cannot defend themselves. As a husband and father of four, my responsibility is to protect the ones I love, even if that means giving up my life in the process. As a Campus Police Officer at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, I hold the same attitude toward my brothers and sisters at the school. Body armor would provide much-needed protection in an active shooter event. As explained previously, I am a security officer for a Christian school in New Orleans East. I live in, attend class, and work on campus. My employer has provided me with some basic tools: a sidearm, handcuffs, and pepper spray. The school has even provided us with a course in active shooter training by the New Orleans SWAT Department. But one critical component I have yet to be issued is adequate body armor. I have pleaded with my supervisor for three years to have the school provide vests for their officers; however, lack of finances has been the repeated reason cited by our administration for not purchasing vests for the officers. I have often considered purchasing armor, but the overwhelming portion of my income goes toward school and living expenses. Having body armor would enable me to better defend my family, friends, colleagues, residents, and students on and off campus here in New Orleans. The most significant meaning of a vest would be peace of mind for my wife and children, knowing their daddy will come home safe. Thank you on behalf of whomever Safe Life does decide to donate armor. Few companies stand behind their vision enough to give their products. I commend your organization for the work you are doing.
Tyler Battaglia | Police Officer
I respond to calls, assisting citizens while ensuring my safety from potential threats. My ultimate goal is to return home safely to my beloved wife and dog. Having Safe Life Defense Armor would make that a much greater possiblity. I believe I should be considered for your Guardian Angel Program because I am dedicated to my profession and committed to ensuring my safety and the safety of those I serve. Having reliable body armor would greatly enhance my ability to perform my duties effectively and return home safely to my loved ones. Beyond its physical attributes, it signifies a peace of mind, allowing me to carry out my responsibilities with greater confidence and focus on the well-being of those I am sworn to assist and protect. Winning this would not only benefit me personally but also contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of my service. Thank you for your consideration and all that you do for the First Responder Community!
Kelly Rose-Groves | Arizona Ranger
Being an Arizona Ranger, any of the duties I sign up to volunteer for, makes me a target in the eyes of a criminal. Although I acknowledge this, I try to push through being brave to protect those who I’m able to protect. Being a new Ranger, means supplying all your own equipment and uniforms and supplies. It would really help to become a recipient of a protective vest as I still have more uniform pieces to buy but really need some protection, just can’t afford to add it at this time, and not sure when in the future, I’ll be able to. t means confidence, safety, and will allow me to concentrate on taking out the bad guy if I ever need to, instead of being scared and retreating, because I don’t have the proper equipment. This is my second time applying and I really hope to be selected. Being a recipient of a bulletproof vest would so help me out, and help me continue to give back to our community by helping them and myself, stay safe.
