To the Editor:
Doesn't it seem that we are overwhelmed by advertising and slogans telling us that some car dealer gives the best trade-in value for your car? The best service? That one grocery chain has the best prices? They make the best toothpaste? Yet there are a couple of slogans that I have encountered that really stand for something. Many police agencies use the Los Angeles Police Department’s slogan “To Serve and Protect.” I have seen first-hand how the McDonough County Sheriff’s Department has made this motto a reality.
I became a member of the Sheriff’s Department in 2008. As an auxiliary deputy I had various responsibilities that freed regular deputies to perform more critical duties. That is when I first met Nick Petitgout. He was a detective at the time. He impressed me as a straightforward, no nonsense professional. Apparently, he impressed Sheriff Van Brooker the same way because he soon was promoted to Chief Deputy where he handled much of the administration of the department. His commitment to the community and the department was apparent and the respect Chief Deputy Petitgout earned from the deputies was obvious as well. When Sheriff Van Brooker retired and Nick Petitgout ran for sheriff, the support he had from the department was overwhelming.
As an auxiliary deputy, I had an insider’s view of the dynamics involved. I was impressed then and still am today. Apparently, I am not the only one. The Illinois Sheriff’s Association chose Sheriff Petitgout to be their president. Sheriff Petitgout lives to Serve and Protect.
I mentioned that there were two slogans that have substance behind them. The second is the Marine Corps slogan Semper Fidelis, often quoted as Semper Fi. Semper Fi signifies loyalty to country and service. The use of Semper Fi is totally appropriate, since Sheriff Petigout served our country as a Marine. Additionally, Nick and his family have demonstrated their commitment to the community and country. His wife has a history of serving Macomb schools students, while his older son is serving the country in the Air Force.
To Protect and Serve. Semper Fi. Nick Petitgout lives by both mottos. His commitment to community and country are what I want in my elected officials. The Spoon River Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police sees the same qualities that I do in Nick. That is why they endorsed Nick’s re-election. I have voted for Sheriff Petitgout in each of his campaigns, and I urge you to cast your ballot for him in the Republican Primary.
Jim Bloom Macomb, Illinois
