- September 22, 2024
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Riverbend Academy students spent some time with local law enforcement at the school's third-annual Back the Blue event on Friday, Nov. 10.
From witnessing an Air One landing on their own campus to watching a bomb detonate across the field, the students were able to see and hear about some of the duties of deputies and police officers thanks to participation by the Volusia County Sheriff's Office, Ormond Beach Police Department and Volusia County Beach Patrol.
Alesha Richmond, Riverbend Academy's marketing and development director, said they hope one of the activities available during the event will inspire some of their students to pursue a career in law enforcement.
“We want to support our officers, especially in times when they are not being supported," Richmond said. "We want to instill in our students a love and appreciation for law enforcement and we want to honor them today.”
OBPD faced off a number of Riverbend Academy's 7th-12th graders in a friendly game of kickball. Despite a stumbling start, OBPD reigned victorious with a close win of 7-6 after six innings — not that the students minded. Many of the younger ones cheered OBPD on throughout the game.
For Richmond, seeing all the officers in attendance, many of which volunteered their time to participate in Riverbend Academy's event, is a testament of their dedication to their community.
“This is how much law enforcement loves schools," Richmond said. "They love the community so much that they come out even when they’re not on duty.”