From Military Service to Community Service: Parsons Police Department Honors Its Veterans

For Immediate Release

 

This Veterans Day, the Parsons Police Department proudly recognizes the men and women who have answered the call to serve our nation in uniform and extends a special tribute to three members of the department who continue their commitment to service through careers in law enforcement.

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is an opportunity to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. For many veterans, their commitment to protecting others does not end when they hang up their military uniforms. Instead, that same sense of duty carries forward into their communities, where they continue to serve and protect.

The Parsons Police Department is honored to recognize three members of its law enforcement family who have proudly served our country:

·         Officer Sean McCullough- United States Army

·         Corporal Mark Raney- United States Marine Corp

·         Lieutenant Jason Ludwig- United States Navy, Army

Each of these individuals has demonstrated a commitment to something greater than themselves. Their military service represents a willingness to sacrifice for their country, while their continued service in law enforcement reflects their dedication to protecting the citizens of Parsons.

Chief of Police Robert Spinks emphasized the importance of recognizing veterans, particularly those who have chosen to continue serving their communities after their military careers. "Military service and law enforcement share a common foundation built upon courage, discipline, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to others. These three men have already answered one of the highest calls to service by defending our nation. Today, they continue that commitment by protecting our community. Their experiences, leadership, and dedication make our department stronger. We are incredibly proud to have them wearing the Parsons Police Department uniform, and we owe them, and every veteran, a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid."

For Lieutenant Jason Ludwig, a veteran of both the United States Navy and Army who served during the Iraq War, Veterans Day carries a personal meaning. His military experience helped establish the foundation of leadership, responsibility, and service that continues to guide his law enforcement career.

"When you raise your right hand and swear to defend this country, you make a commitment that stays with you long after your military service ends. For many of us, serving was never about recognition or personal gain. It was about standing beside the person to your left and right, doing your job, and being willing to sacrifice for something bigger than yourself. That sense of duty doesn't disappear when you take off the uniform. It becomes part of who you are. I am proud to have served my country, proud to serve this community, and even prouder to stand alongside fellow veterans who continue to answer the call. Veterans Day isn't about any one of us. It's about honoring those who served before us, those who stand watch today, and especially those who never made it home."

The department also recognizes the families of veterans, whose sacrifices are often made quietly and without recognition. Behind every service member are loved ones who have endured long deployments, missed holidays, uncertainty, and the challenges that accompany military service. Their strength and support are an important part of the sacrifices made in defense of our nation.

While Veterans Day is an occasion to celebrate and thank those who have served, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the generations of Americans who have defended them.

The Parsons Police Department encourages the community to take a moment this November 11 to thank a veteran, listen to their stories, and remember that the freedoms we enjoy today have been protected through the service and sacrifice of ordinary Americans who answered an extraordinary call.

To Officer Sean McCullough, Corporal Mark Raney, Lieutenant Jason Ludwig, and all veterans throughout Parsons, Labette County, and across this great nation: Thank you for your service, your sacrifices, and your continued dedication to our country.

Your service is not forgotten. Your sacrifices are not taken for granted. And your commitment to this nation will always be honored. Happy Veterans Day from the Parsons Police Department.

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