On June 4, 2021, the Dallas Police Department had the honor of providing a Ride-Along for 97-year-old World War II hero Clifford A. Stump. Mr. Stump partnered up with Senior Corporal Langlois, of the Southwest Patrol Division, and hit the streets to answer calls and learn about LIDAR, a precise speed monitoring tool. During their shift, Assistant Chief Jesse Reyes met with Mr. Stump and thanked him for his service in the 82nd Airborne Division, including his landing on D-Day in Normandy and his defense of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge. Mr. Stump expressed his appreciation for those who wear the uniform and was amazed by the technology and tools that police officers use every day.

Having Mr. Stump accompanying us on this Ride-Along is just another way of improving police and community relationships by familiarizing participants with the complex and unpredictable nature of police work. It can also be a fine introduction to everyday life on the police force.