Ohio law enforcement honored at NHL game

November was a busy month as the NHL hosted several Law Enforcement Appreciation Nights in honor of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. On November 17 the Columbus Blue Jackets hosted their annual First Responders/Law Enforcement Night which was a huge success.

A sold-out crowd watched the Blue Jackets beat the visiting New York Rangers with a final score of 2-0. 

The Columbus (OH) Division of Police Mounted, Motorcycle & Freeway Units were on hand, as well as the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Columbus Division of Fire, to greet arriving fans.   

The Columbus Division of Police Motorcycle and Freeway Units provided a VIP escort to the family of Kirkersville (OH) Police Chief Eric DiSario from their home to the game. They were hosted by the Blue Jackets at a pregame experience on the ice, and after the game they were invited in the Blue Jackets locker room by player Cam Atkinson. 

Several families of first responders were able to greet players as they entered the ice and children of local law enforcement officers were able to ride the Zamboni throughout the evening.

During the first intermission the Columbus Division of Police Chief Kim Jacobs’ patrol cruiser was driven around the ice by CPD Officer of the Month Anthony L. Johnson. 

Interactive stations were located throughout the arena for the fans to visit, along with K9 demonstrations by Columbus Airport Police Officer David Knepper and his K9 partner.

The Franklin County (OH) Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad brought their robot to explain how they use their special equipment. 

Special thanks to the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, especially Malinda Smith, Dani Knell and Cam Atkinson. Our thanks to the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, Columbus Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police for their continued support of this great event.