Dexter, Missouri - Sue Edwards of Dexter felt it was time to celebrate our law enforcement on an annual basis by having a Back the Blue Appreciation Day on August 4th each year.  Last year she and through local donations gave appreciation certificates and hosted a free lunch at Hickory Log to Dexter Police Department, Missouri Highway Patrol in our area, and to the Stoddard County Sheriff's Department.

“I just am tired of all the negative talk about the men and women who wear the badge,” stated Edwards.  “I was sitting at the kitchen table one day and the more I thought about it the more I wanted to do something for our local officers who risk their lives each day.”

Dexter’s police department is fortunate enough to have so many citizens show their appreciation throughout the year, but on August 4th this day will be set aside each year to celebrate our local police force and all they do for the citizens of Dexter.

On Friday the Dexter Police Department, the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, and several of our local Missouri Highway Patrol Troopers will be treated to lunch at Hickory Log at noon.

Sue Edwards is point of contact for this event and she has already received a few donations from local businesses to help promote the event.  For police officers invited, but not able to attend, gift certificates to Hickory Log will be given to them as a show of appreciation.

The Boy Scouts plan to fly the American Flags down Business US 60.  If your business has a flag, please display it August 4th.

“I think about all those mothers, wives, and children who kiss their loved ones goodbye as they go off to work not knowing if they will return that evening.  It can be a very dangerous job,” commented Edwards.

An account has been established at Southern Bank in Dexter for donations.  The bank is located at 713 W. Business US Highway 60 in Dexter.  Their phone number is (573) 624-5525.  

If you would like to donate or need further information, please contact Sue Edwards at (573) 614-9266.