Community Comes Together to Honor Kissimmee Police Officers, Learn About Safety

Best Foot Forward was honored to host a table at this year’s Kissimmee Police Department’s Community Appreciation Day. The event specifically honored Sergeant Sam Howard and Officer Matthew Baxter and their families. The two fallen officers were killed in the line of duty two years ago this week.

On Saturday, August 17, community members were treated to DJ music, free hot dogs and drinks and a tour of the Kissimmee Police Department headquarters.

Members of the Best Foot Forward Community Outreach Team shared information on pedestrian and bicycle safety, including crosswalk safety. Our team gave out IY4Peds magnets and stickers, and leaflets explaining Florida’s driver yield laws. We also gave out a few free bike helmets to kids who didn’t have one.

The most touching moment of the day was when Officer Baxter’s Widow, Sadia, who is also a KPD Officer, spoke to the community gathered about how life is now for her and her three young daughters. State Senator Vic Torres, Kissimmee Mayor Jose Alvarez and Kissimmee Commissioner Olga Gonzalez were there as well.

It’s so great to be able to work with our partners at the Kissimmee Police Department and the City of Kissimmee throughout the year to encourage safer habits. Great job on this amazing video.