By Chéye Roberson
Sentinel Reporter
The Silver Shield Association, the Greenwich police union, held its first fundraiser at the Sundown Saloon on Greenwich Avenue on Monday night and packed the house with people who wanted to send a message of thanks for being there for them.
“I think the police have a tough job and are underappreciated and misunderstood,” said Amy Silver. “Anytime you can show them that you believe in them and appreciate them is a good thing.”
State Rep. Mike Bocchino said he wanted to show his support because the Greenwich Police Department and the Silver Shield help schools throughout the district with reading and safety.
“We have the greatest police force, I think, in the state, and anything we can do to support the Silver Shield we’ll do. I think you’re average individual doesn’t realize what the police department does for the community,” said Bocchino. “When one peels away the layers, it amazing to see the commitment they have and the dedication to the entire town.”
The Silver Shield Association has developed a number of community programs aimed at educating children and developing a solid relationship with the community, including the Bikes for B’s program where Silver Shield offers bicycles to kids who have raised their grades in school.
The Police Explorers program works with kids who are interested in law enforcement. They meet every week and often take field trips, particularly in the summer. Tim Hilderbrand said the best thing about participating in the programs is “showing kids that a police officer has a good influence on them.”
This sentiment was shared by other members of Silver Shield in attendance.
“Without the community we’re nothing and Silvershield helps us connect more with the community and they can realize that we’re not the bad guys,” said Brian Tornga, a Greenwich police patrol officer and member of the executive board of Silver Shield.
The Fairfield County Police Pipe Band formed a circle in the middle of the jam-packed bar and restaurant and played to the cheers of the Silver Shield members and supporters.
People in attendance said that the large crowd was a good sign.
“I think it’s great because it’s full which means a lot of support and they’re raising money,” Amy Silver said. “It’s a fun vibe, a fun soiree.”
The large turnout also spoke to the fellowship that the Silver Shield Association promotes within itself as well as within the community.
“The comradery, brotherhood, and fact that we stick together—that’s why we’re here tonight, to show support for each other,” said Vincent Loria, a motorcycle enforcement officer and member of the Silver Shield.
