Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40AMERICAN POLICE BEAT: NOVEMBER 2016 19 Matt Davis explained that over the years Brian has done an awesome job of develop- ing the program further and creating a database of saves and their stories. “He makes sure he contacts everyone whose vest saved their life as soon as he can. “Only these officers and their families know exactly what they have gone through. By bringing them together we want them to know that they aren’t alone,” Davis said. “They form life long bonds and friendships which are part of the healing process.” noted Brian Murphy. Michael Schuyler said he is constantly aware that he was involved in an incident that could have been tragic. “But out of it came many bless- ings,” Schuyler said. “One was getting to meet and spend time with the peo- ple responsible for saving my life. “Another was meeting and spending time with these six guys who have stared the devil in the face, and like me, persevered.” Deputy Joe Canales agrees. “I say it every chance I get,” Canales said. “Always wear your vest. It doesn’t matter if you are too hot or uncom- fortable. It you don’t have your vest on, there’s a good chance you won’t go home that night.” During the retreat the fami- lies toured the Armor Express facilities, met the employees, and shared their life saving stories. Following the tour, the company hosted a picnic for the families. For the next three days, they relaxed, networked and enjoyed great camaraderie at a large home on Torch Lake that was donated by a generous family from Central Lake. “Looking back, the Saves Retreat was an outstanding experience for me and my family,” noted Jason Harley. “The shared experience cre- ated a bond between the officers, and the greatest part was watching our children play together and become friends.” “I just wanted to say the retreat was great,” added Mi- chael Williams. “The Armor Express family is now part of my family forever. Thanks to all of them for showing us a lot of love – we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.” An intense bond Armor Express CEO Matt Davis is carrying on the family legacy of saving lives. Next to Matt is his dad, the legendary Richard Davis, widely considered the inventor of soft concealable body armor. Matt and Richard are pictured here with six saves from every corner of the United States. From left to right: Michael Williams Jr., Joseph Tortorella, Jason Harley, Richard Davis, Matthew Davis, Michael Schuyler, Kyle Gilmore, and Joseph Canales. Michael Williams Jr. and his family enjoy some rest and relaxation. Michael was shot in the line of duty. For more information or to submit your program www.DestinationZero.org General Officer Safety Officer Traffic Safety Officer Wellness Comprehensive Safety The Memorial Fund seeks information on innovative safety or wellness programs currently implemented for the physical and/or mental well-being of their officers. Agencies submitting information on safety and wellness programs for consideration for the 2017 National Officer Safety and Wellness Award must provide their information and material no later than December 31, 2016.