Triumph Baptist Honors Sewickley's Police and Firefighters

The Rev. Robert Johnson, a former investigator, police and security officer, said he understands the close bond firefighters and police officers share. He can also attest to the tragedies of life they often encounter together. 

“One thing I can attest to is that, as first responders, you’re exposed to the most disgusting, foul, putrid, negative side of life everyday,” said Johnson, who retired six days ago after 35 years in the public safety field.

Johnson offered words of wisdom as part of a salute Thursday at to Sewickley's  police and firefighters. The senior ministry at the church recognized the first responders for their "dedicated, unselfish and commendable public service."

“The rest of us live in the same place where you work, but we don’t get to see nor experience the daily grief that you do.”The senior ministry at the church recognized the first responders for their "dedicated, unselfish and commendable public service."

When the senior ministry meets once a month, they typically have a speaker and Scripture reading, said special guest Michael Bozic, a member and president of the . 

“This is a special thing,” Bozic said.

Bozic presented and  with flags to recognize their departments. 

Before the flag presentation, offered the welcome and surprised the church with a proclamation recognizing the congregation and declaring Thursday as Triumph Baptist Church Appreciation Day.

“I can say so many great things about our community. It’s a friendly community…it’s a safe community,” Jeffe said. 

Jeffe said  has 35 volunteer members, and the police department has six full-time and 12 part-time officers. He estimates about 95 percent of people are truly happy in the borough, but officials don’t always hear from them.

“It’s flattering. It’s honoring to be recognized.”

Johnson said local officials will never know the positive impacts they have on people’s lives unless someone happens to come back one day to thank them. 

"We honor you today for giving yourself, for giving your lives for the betterment of others," he said.