Support for CHP, Guard

It is not easy during these difficult times to be appreciative or optimistic, but as the representative of the 2,300 California Highway Patrol officers specifically assigned to the Los Angeles riots, we would be remiss if we did not recognize the widespread support and cooperation offered to our officers by the people of Los Angeles.

We have received several calls from our members who were highly complimentary of the business community’s support, the high level of cooperation from the Los Angeles Fire Department and other law enforcement and military personnel and the support of the citizens of Los Angeles.

This was obviously a difficult and dangerous situation, but the good citizens of Los Angeles were responsible for keeping the morale of our members high. While the rioting, looting and general mayhem in Los Angeles were played out in detail in every living room across this nation, the decent and law-abiding citizens of Los Angeles went unnoticed. However, let us assure you, the overwhelming support of the public, business and community leaders made a real difference to the CHP officers in Los Angeles. You should all be proud of providing an important boost to our troops during these difficult times.

The unanimous consensus of the officers returning from Los Angeles, many who had worked 16- or 18-hour days, was a desire to have done more sooner.

From all the members of the California Highway Patrol, our heartfelt sympathy and best wishes for a speedy and healthy recovery to the people of Los Angeles. We are truly pulling for you all!

GORDON KOOLMAN, President

California Assn. of Highway Patrol

Sacramento