Across the country on January 9th each year, citizens take the lead to show support on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. We have so many officers to thank for their service. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, Baldwin County Sheriffs and ALEA. Also all of the canine officers.

Not only do they protect "Paradise", they manage our heavy tourist traffic, patrol the beaches, patrol the surrounding waters, guard our schools, and support all of the events during the year. Not to mention all of the outreach within our communities.

Law Enforcement Officers of every rank and file have chosen a profession that puts their life on the line every day for their communities. They've answered a call to public service that is demanding and often under-appreciated.

The jobs often take them away from their families for long hours. Rarely do they know what their days have in store for them.

There are several ways to show your support.

• Send a note of thanks to your local police agency
• Use #NationalLawEnforcementAppreciationDay to share on social media
• Donate to one of their funds like "Shop with a Cop"
• Drop off some gift cards for coffee or lunch at the station
• Best of ALL... Say "Thank You" when you see an officer!