T'was the night before Christmas and all through the Town, not a person was stirring, no one was around. The citizens at home with kids deep in a sleep, while I patrolled alone, the dark and mean street. I drove round the block, with my family in mind, hoping the calls would be few, then I saw some lights shine. At the end of the block was a car in a ditch, as the drunk stumbled out, I knew it wasn't St. Nick. He wasn't much trouble when I locked him in jail, and felt bad for his family, who must raise his bail. Back on patrol at a quarter till 4, I spied a door open at the back of a store. I called for back-up which I knew was far away, and waited outside the door, and silently prayed. When suddenly inside there arose such a clatter, the burglar inside suspected something was the matter. He came out the door and started to run, then saw my patrol car, my flashlight and gun. "Dont Move"! I yelled but he was quick on the draw. He fired only once and I started to fall. On the way down, my own pistol fired, the felon went down and quickly expired. I rose to my feet and felt of my chest, and realized his bullet was lodged in my vest. As I stood there alone and looked to the sky..I swear I heard sleigh bells jingle up high. And his voice echoed to me, distant and faint, "Thank you my friend, for keeping me safe".



(Courtesy of)

Sgt. Dave Haskins

#262

Muldrow, OK. PD (Retired)