August 2, 2011 my husband, Kevin, called me. “I’m okay, but….” Those words would forever haunt me as he went on to share that three Rapid City Police officers were shot. As a South Dakota State Trooper, Kevin was on his way to help guard the perimeter.
I didn’t know the officers who were shot, but for hours all I could do was pray and desperately wait for more information. My husband is a forensic mapper and was out all night mapping the crime scene. When Kevin finally returned home, he gave me the devastating news that one officer didn’t survive, and two were in critical condition. A few days later, the second officer died and the third, thankfully, survived.
Police officer’s wives were mobilized, selling bracelets and t-shirts in order to unite our community in support of our mourning law enforcement officers. They tied blue ribbons from the funeral home to the Civic Center, where the funerals were to be held. At the funeral of the first officer, I sat next to Kevin in the packed arena. The floor was filled with officers from every agency in the city, several throughout the state, and many from surrounding states.
Following a heartfelt message, they asked us to be quiet for last call. I had never experienced such a bittersweet moment. After a series of beeps, the dispatcher called the ID number for the fallen officer twice, only to be met with blaring silence. After the third time, she adds his name, then ends by giving him permission, in a ten-code, to go “home”.
The dispatcher that gave “last call” also dispatched the call when the officers were shot. My heart hurt for her, and I couldn’t get that experience out of my head. I had never thought of the tough job dispatchers have until that moment. They are the first voice you hear when your world is crashing down. They experience horror on a daily basis and have to react professionally and calmly, doing their best to give and send help.
Previously, I had put my writing on hold to raise my family. Our daughter was eight and we were caring for three sisters in foster care, who we would later adopt. But the story of a dispatcher struggling with burnout wouldn’t leave my mind. I had to write her story for my own closure. Years later, I decided to attend a writer’s conference. I chose that story to pitch to editors, publishers, and agents just to gain experience. I had no idea they would like it and ask to see more. Five months later I signed a contract for my debut novel, Dakota Peace.
While I’m humbled that my book will soon be published, I will never forget the young men who sacrificed their lives, or the pain of their fellow officers, first responders, and dispatchers. “The thin blue line” represents the officers who have sworn an oath to uphold the laws and protect their citizens from those who want to harm them. They are the blue line of defense between good and evil, and their families become the “blue” family who stand behind them.
I’m glad you shared this, Megan. I didn’t realize this is the motivation for your novel. Using your talents you are helping memorialize our fallen officers, while calling attention to the importance of properly processing cumulative stress. I also appreciate you acknowledging the sacrifices made by non-sworn law enforcement, too. Can’t wait to get my book on Amazon! I’ve always known you are specially gifted. 👍
Thanks so much!!! One day I need to pick your brain. A heroine based off your experiences would be amazing!
Thanks for sharing, Megan. I can’t imagine what dispatchers must go through and yet they are like the forgotten heroes. Our son-in-law is in law enforcement and the more we learn, the more I am humbled by all that they do and voluntarily endure. I’m looking forward to your book.
Thanks!!! I took a citizens dispatch class and loved every minute of it. They are the behind-the-scene heroes! Thanks for your support!
I was a Deputy with me County at the time and horribly remember all the radio traffic that evening.
I’ve been on several calls in the past with your husband as well.
Yhank you so much for writing this book. Where can your book be purchased?
Hi! Thanks for the comment and for serving our community. The book is going to be available February of next year. I’ll be sending out more information as I get it. If you’ve liked my author Facebook page or signed up for my newsletter you’ll receive updates. Thanks!
Megan
Megan, as a fellow writer, I enjoyed reading this story immensely. I look forward to the release of your book. Congratulations on this endeavor. Is your Facebook page just under your name, or is it a closed group? Would love to be added so I can receive updates. Blessings to you, and God’s protection for your brave husband and his comrades. ~ BJ Reese
Hi BJ!
Thanks for your comments and your prayer for my husband and his coworkers. My author Facebook page is open to anyone and is under Megan Kinney, author. If you sign up for my newsletter there is a link in there as well. Sign up on the home page of megankinney.net and thanks again for your encouraging message! God bless you!