Back the Blue Cruise To Aid Fallen Dallas Officers' Families

A little over two weeks ago, five police officers were viciously gunned down and killed, and seven others wounded in an ambush in Dallas, Texas. Subsequently, the shooter was killed, but this event has had a devastating impact on Americans nationwide, and on law enforcement officers and their families.

In an effort to assist these officers' families, San Angelo Police Department Public Information Officer Tracy Gonzales said, "Local residents have organized a 'Back the Blue Cruise' for this Saturday, July 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  A group of 'off-roaders' will be driving through San Angelo, displaying banners or flags in support of law enforcement. The drive will begin at the Lowe’s grocery store parking lot at 2 S. Main, across the street from the SAPD headquarters. The group will end their run at West Texas 4 Wheel Drive & Offroad at 1811 W. Beauregard Ave., where the main event will take place."

Matt Hodges, owner of WT4WD&O, Mike Hermes, and a couple of other friends have worked feverishly to organize the event over the past week. 

"We got the idea from a group in Midland who held a similar event last week, but didn't anticipate it being this big," Hermes said. "At first, we were just going to have a luncheon and gather a couple of items for an auction to help the families in Dallas, but the response has been somewhat overwhelming. One of the guys suggested we do a 'cruise;' another came up with the idea to have some flags made; and we'll have 'giveaways' rather than an auction."

"Matt has done an amazing job, and has even donated a 52" light bar for a truck which normally costs $1,000.00 for one of the prize giveaways," said Hermes. Additionally, he said several other businesses and individuals have come through with another $3,300 worth of prizes, which range from gift cards, vehicle accessories, a mini smoker and much more.

Hermes added, "All branches of law enforcement will be represented in this event; everybody is onboard, and [wants] to meet with the community, as it's a good thing to show them, 'Hey, we're normal people too,' and we've got your six.  Also, If it wasn't for the group that we have, we would not have been able to set this thing (event) up." 

Officer Gonzales explained, "Tickets for the giveaways are a $5 donation (each), and the group has had 2,000 of them printed up. Food will also be available for a $5 donation to the general public, and all law enforcement officers will eat for free. Proceeds will benefit the families of the fallen Dallas Police Officers via the Assist the Officer Foundation."

For those people who cannot attend Saturday's event but wish to help, they can go to the Assist the Officer Foundation at atodallas.org to make a donation.