Go Blue for Garcia

On Aug. 22, San Bernardino Police Officer, Gabe Garcia was shot in the line-of-duty while conducting a pedestrian check in the city of San Bernardino. Officer Garcia was transported to a local hospital where he is still being treated and remains in critical condition. The public has been supportive of Officer Garcia and his family. A week after the incident, an organization called Go Heroes.us launched a Facebook campaign for members of the community to purchase blue lights and turn them on in support of his recovery. The campaign grew with thousands of followers and blue lights soon disappeared from stores within the Inland Empire. In the law enforcement profession, the color blue has a long history dating back to the late 1800s, blue was for protection and safety. Blue represents courage, faith, and hope which is why a blue light illuminates over the National Peace Officer Memorial while commemorating the sacrifices of past peace officers. Residents are asked to “Go Blue” for Officer Garcia as this campaign moves to a new level. After extensive meetings with police union leaders with goals of bringing our communities together, Lowe’s in Redlands, agreed to help make this campaign a reality for Officer Garcia, his family, and the San Bernardino Police Officers Association. This involves the Colton Police Officers Association (POA), Redlands POA, Corona POA, Riverside POA, Barstow POA, Upland POA, Palm Springs POA, Cathedral City POA, Fontana POA and the Sheriffs Benevolent Association (SEBA). Residents in Barstow, Colton, Redlands, Riverside, Fontana, Chino, Corona, Cathedral City, Palm Springs, and Upland can go to their local police departments and pick up a free blue light that has been purchased by your local police union. Replace your current light in front of your home or apartment with this blue light to support Officer Garcia until his condition improves. Lights can also be purchased at Lowe’s in Redlands. City leaders have also jumped into the show of solidarity. In Rialto, the Rialto Police Department is illuminated with blue lights; Colton City Hall has turned on blue lights. In Corona, blue lights illuminate the police department, city hall, and the Corona Police Officers Association offices. To donate to Officer Garcia’s fund, visit: www.thesbpoa.org. Like and get updates from the Officer Garcia Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/505098786300409/