Sometimes we all need a reminder.

2014-12-11T17:21:14-05:00

This morning I was on my way to work when I got to spend some quality time over coffee with the local PD.

It seems that I am not dealing with some post deployment anger issues as well as I thought I was, the car in front of me at the red light just sat there when it turned green. Although I could feel my face getting hot as I "patiently" waited for him to go I finally gave the driver a friendly beep-beep to draw his attention from his cell phone so I could continue mission. We finally caught and passed the cars in the left lane and he moved over. Finally! I thought to myself "I’ll show him how to get somewhere" I mashed the "go pedal" and my 6.0 LS2 came alive, using most of the available 400 horse power the deep throaty sound from my exhaust was like a symphony in my ears. I was becoming satisfied as I quickly passed the slow car and my needle was flying passed 70 that is when I saw up ahead in the darkness the profile of a SUV and something reflective on the side...COP! I quickly took my foot of the throttle but I knew it was too late when I saw his headlights come on, as I was getting into the brakes I saw the dreadful reds & blues. I am getting a ticket right before Christmas, just great! All of these people I just passed are now passing me, grrr, stupid slow driver, it all his fault.

I pulled over and while waiting for the Policeman to catch up I started fishing out my proof of insurance, driver’s license and CHL. I turned on the interior light, rolled down the window and as the officer approached he introduced himself (I cannot remember his name now because I was thinking about the "unexpected bill" before Christmas). He asked for my documents and I handed them to him. He asked if I had my weapon in the car, I said I did, it's in the console. He studies my documents for a minute as the knot in my stomach is tightening, he scrunches up his face and says "75 in a 55, really? [Dramatic pause] Slow it down and have a good day Sergeant."

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Clause.

Please let this be a reminder for you to slow down, be safe and enjoy this holiday season, before your local PD has to remind you.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 6:50 PM

2014-12-11T18:50:15-05:00

A great story and it shows there's people out there looking out for you. Thanks for sharing SFC Private RallyPoint Member and be safe.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Dec 12 at 2014 11:25 AM

2014-12-12T11:25:46-05:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member Thanks for sharing this cautionary tale. Another reason people should slow down and drive safe: It's probably the greatest threat to your life at your current age, so long as you don't OD on drugs or alcohol or take your own life.
http://www.worldlifeexpectancy.com/usa-cause-of-death-by-age-and-gender

USA CAUSES OF DEATH BY AGE AND GENDER

Rank USA causes of death by age, gender and population all in one chart.

Response by SFC William Farrell made Dec 13 at 2014 9:52 PM

2014-12-13T21:52:13-05:00

Are you required to notify LE that you are carrying? He seemed to know already based on what you said? Is CHL part of your DL?

Bill

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Dec 13 at 2014 10:19 PM

2014-12-13T22:19:44-05:00

Wow you are lucky. I got pulled over the other day that day i was following all the rules too. I forgot about my busted tail light that i just bought lightes for. He was a nice deputy and let me off with a warning.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2014 10:20 PM

2014-12-13T22:20:03-05:00

Great story, SFC Private RallyPoint Member. I'm glad for you that it had a happy ending. And you will probably slow it on down for a while now. Merry Christmas! (I think I know how you felt with the driver in front of you on his cell phone. Drives me crazy, but I just tap my horn to let them know that it's time to put the phone down and drive.)

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2014 10:23 PM

2014-12-13T22:23:29-05:00

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa....
Great reminder about safety, stress and class under pressure. You did the right thing once you were stopped; paperwork up front and ready. I have no doubt you were courteous. Answering honestly without rancor or sniveling - nice touch.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Mar 1 at 2015 2:44 PM

2015-03-01T14:44:08-05:00

I have always found that Virginia is a good State and LE do know how to respect our Service men and woman. Being retired from LE myself, I always tried to give those who served a break. But I can tell you that it is all about your attitude and humility. If you show respect to the Officer they in turn do try and reciprocate. I do know of a few States and jurisdictions that could care less and everyone gets written up no matter who you are. Stay safe everyone! You never know whose watching? SF!