As I was celebrating the Memorial Day holiday, I spent a little time reflecting on the military men and women that spend their days and nights in defense of our country and our way of life.

There is no possible way to adequately express our thanks to these heroes.

My thoughts also ran to other heroes that are among us: the law enforcement officers that are out on our streets, as well as the firefighters that answer the bell of emergency whenever it rings.

Many years ago, I was an assistant district attorney in Shelby County and I had the honor of working closely with Sheriff’s deputies, police officers and state troopers every day.

I saw that much of what they do is pretty routine, but from time to time they are confronted with a truly dangerous state of affairs.

At any given moment, with no warning, the officers on the streets can find themselves in a life threatening situation that requires quick, level-headed thinking to keep a bad situation from getting worse.

And then there are the firefighters. The old joke is:Who in their right mind would run into a burning building?

But if you think about it, there is so much truth in that question.

These men and women go into the fire to save people and property in spite of the obvious danger.

The bravery and sense of duty exhibited by these men and women is almost beyond my comprehension.

So, today I stand and salute our law enforcement officers that ride the roads and our firefighters that answer the call every day and night.

I am deeply grateful for what they do for me and everyone in Shelby County. The next time you see an officer or firefighter, tell him or her thank you.