In 2011 US Marine Matias Ferreira stepped on an Improvise Explosive Device. The result being that this young Marine lost both legs below the knee. Additionally he suffered a number of shattered bones. His body was broken, not his spirit.
After a long period of recovery and rehab he set about fulfilling his childhood dream. That of becoming a Police Officer.
He and his titanium legs applied to the Suffolk County(NY) Police. With credit for his military service he scored a perfect 100%.
He entered the police academy and passed the grueling 29 week course with flying colors. This included the mile and a half run, weapon training and law and procedures.
He said, “I’ve been given a second chance. Not many survive an IED blast. I won’t give up on myself.”
Throughout his training the Lieutenant in charge of the police academy asked if he need any special accommodations. His reply was always, “I don’t need anything, sir.”
“A lotta guys are like, what happens if you break your leg?” I always tell ’em, “If I break my leg I go to the trunk and get another one. If you break your leg your off for a couple months.”
He starts his field training shortly. With an attitude like that Officer Ferreira will be an asset and example for both the Suffolk County Police and others who gave their limbs in far off lands.
Carry on Officer Ferreira. Well Done!!
My wife says I should wrote more stories like this. What say you??
STAY SAFE, BUCKLE UP AND WEAR YOUR VEST!
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