Senior Trooper Steven Vincent’s Benefit, A Community Outpouring Of Support

Yesterday, I attended the Senior Trooper Steven Vincent Benefit organized by the Seven Slot Society of SWLA at the Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheater, and I was very overwhelmed at the outpouring of support by my community I call home.  Planned in five short days, 100% of all proceeds raised during the event is for Steven Vincent's family; he leaves behind his wife Katharine, and their nine year old son, Ethan.  Mr. Gatti's was out with their pizza truck, Casa Mañana brought the taco truck; jambalaya, BBQ dinners, and a live and silent auction were also organized, along with live entertainment throughout the benefit.

I did not know Trooper Vincent, but I wish I did.  As I walked around the event, I heard various stories that shared one universal thought, he was a good man.  A veteran who served in Afghanistan, he comes from a long line of law enforcement family members.  Once an officer with Lake Charles Police Department, he was currently a Senior State Trooper with the Louisiana State Police.  Gunned down in the line of duty a week ago, he leaves behind a legacy of good character and upstanding action in a world where hatred and sadness often reigns.  I grieve for his family's loss, I grieve for the loss of our innocence that the good guy always wins.  I am tremendously saddened to know there are people who live in a bubble of hate, working daily to undermine and destroy the very essence of what those of us who are good strive to build.

What I will take from today's experience is "community", seeing the various biker groups intermingling with each other; various officers from different departments walking and talking with children, taking pictures and interacting with the community.  I met two New York State Troopers, who traveled to Lake Charles, along with their families, to show respect for a fallen brother.  I asked why they came 2,000 miles to honor a man they didn't know, and they replied "we are brothers in arms, we are brothers in death".  I had to take a moment, I got overwhelmed with emotion and all I could do was hug both of them tight.  Every day, our lawmen and women put the badge on and enter into a dangerous world.  All for honor, courage, and faith.

Walking around the benefit, visiting with strangers who are now friends, I loved seeing all patches and badges were welcome, and I have to believe that good will triumph.  Steven Vincent's life HAD a purpose.  I know he would have loved being a part of such a community rally, since he chose to raise his son in SWLA, and worked tirelessly every day to defend her liberties and freedoms the U.S. flag allows us to have.

It is now a time to heal.  We need more prayer in our lives, we need more God in our hearts.  I pray for healing.  Blue Lives Matter.