SIBPD ' PATCHES' THRU TO WORLD TRADE CENTER
By Sgt. R. Thomas Hopkins - Public Information Officer

Last July, Sunny Isles Beach Police Officer Larry Restagno had the opportunity to take a special visit to the World Trade Center. Accompanied by his brother-in-law (an Inspector with the New York Port Authority Police), he was able to tour 'ground zero' and the effects of the 9-11 tragedy. During this tour, they came upon an informal tribute to the heroic police officers who gave their lives on that tragic day. Displayed on the ground were patches and hats of hundreds of police agencies whose representatives contributed as a sign of respect and solidarity. Feeling a sense of pride in both his own department and of those of his family, Officer Restagno made arrangements to have our patch presented as part of this tribute.

Since this time, the Dover Township Police Department of Tom's River, N.J. has taken it upon itself to formalize this 'patch' memorial. With thousands of police patches collected so far, they will now be displayed alphabetically, state by state in cases to be placed in prominence at the new World Trade Center. Both, Officer Restagno and I agree that it is an honor to be able to pay tribute to those fellow officers who died to save others.
UNITED WE STAND !

Police Chief's Note: Officer Restagno was the first local law enforcement officer of South Florida to bring the Tri-Agency patch back to his department. He presented the combined patches of New York/New Jersey Port Authority, Police Department and Emergency Services to the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department. It was framed and now is proudly displayed in the lobby of the police department. Please feel free to stop by any time and view this tribute to fallen heroes.


TOP