Arlington Police Support Troops
Flag Flown in Iraq On Display

ARLINGTON, VA

The Arlington County Police Department reminds you to recognize the people that serve in our Nation’s military as Veteran’s Day draws near.

An Arlington County Police Department flag has been framed and is on display in the foyer of the police entrance of the department. Police officers see the flag every day on their way to and from work. The display was paid for by the Arlington County Police Beneficiary Association and the Arlington County Police Union. A plaque upon it reads:

"This flag was carried on over 300 combat patrols with the Troopers of 2nd Battalion 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Calvary Division and was proudly flown over FOB GarryOwen, Amarha, Iraq, during June 2008 - June 2009. We are grateful for the outstanding support of our brothers and sisters at the Arlington County Police Department and salute their commitment to our Nation’s defense." - CSM Wade Griffith Sr.

In June 2008, Command Sergeant Major Wade Griffith’s unit was deployed to Amarha, Iraq for 12 months. CSM Griffith’s brother Gary is a Lieutenant with the Arlington County Police Department. Shortly after his brother’s deployment, Lt. Griffith sent police department t-shirts to the unit to boost morale. CSM Griffith asked Chief Douglas Scott to send an ACPD flag to display at their command post, so the soldiers could remember that support on a daily basis. This past holiday season, Lt. Griffith led a fundraiser to show the department’s support for troops serving overseas. Over 3,000 holiday cards were sent to the 1,200 men and women in CSM Griffith’s Battalion. Many officers in the Arlington County Police Department are veterans or currently serve in reserve status.

“This appreciation works both ways” said Lieutenant Gary Griffith. “We can show them how much their service means to us by sending care packages. While our troops are away, hopefully they can rest easier knowing that departments like ours are here at home watching over their families’ safety”.

Veteran’s Day, formally knows as Armistice Day, and is the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I on the 11th minute of the 11th hour on Nov. 11, 1918. As you observe the national holiday tomorrow, please take time to remember the men and women of our Nation's Armed Services and the sacrifices they have made, and continue to make, on our behalf.