(New Carlisle)-

What started out as a simple idea to support local police turned into a star-spangled, and peaceful, demonstration.

About a hundred people, many holding signs and American flags, met Sunday in New Carlisle’s Memorial Park to bear witness to their support of law enforcement. As they gathered, the roar of three planes in a scheduled flyover thundered overhead.

Johnny Vanek, one of the event’s organizers, led the group in prayer, then read a statement written by Vicki Parmley. It stated in part:

“These members of law enforcement put on their badge and their uniforms, kiss their families goodbye as they leave for work, and proceed to put their lives on the line daily. They do this so that we all can be safe and secure as we go about our daily lives.

This Back the Blue Rally is not about anything negative… We are here at this rally to let our voices be heard. We are here to let all law enforcement know we support them.”

State Senator Mike Bohacek also addressed the crowd. “Unfortunately, the popular thing to do is to bash law enforcement,” he said, “It’s important that as a community, we get together and honor them and thank them. This is the right thing to do. These are people who have dedicated their lives to public service; they don’t make a lot of money doing it. And they risk their lives every single day.”

LaPorte County Commissioner Rich Mrozinski of Rolling Prairie joined the rally. “This is small town Indiana; this is what we do, what we believe in” he said, “I relate it to when I came home from Vietnam, the way we were treated. People have no idea what sacrifices that are made for them. It’s what the police do today. And then to have these people who disrespect them—it’s unbelievable.”

Afterward, the crowd walked through New Carlisle’s downtown, tying blue ribbons to light posts. They then briefly lined the main street appealing to passing motorists, before quietly disbanding. Organizers say they may hold another rally later in the fall.