The Atlantic City Police Foundation highlighted those who go above and beyond at its annual Hero Luncheon last weekend at the Hard Rock.
Sgt. Jonathan Walsh was honored for saving a young visitor from a rip current in July.
Walsh ripped off his uniform and gear without hesitation, and jumped into the water.
Walsh did not think his actions were anything extraordinary, he told media at the time, but to the young man’s family felt differently.
The city, county and state honored Walsh with resolutions commending his heroic actions.
James Kutch also was honored for his years of work as the foundation's treasurer and a board member since the foundation began.
James Kutch He provides financial stewardship and supports initiatives that enhance public safety and community engagement.
The Atlantic City Police Foundation was created in 2014 to help bridge the gap between public funding and the growing needs of modern policing, Atlantic City Police Chief James Sarkos explained.
“Since its creation in 2014, the Foundation has raised over $500,000 to help with such purchases of rifle resistant bulletproof vests, vest mounted tourniquets, self-aid kits, EpiPen’s, bike equipment and K-9s,” he said
The foundation even provides officers with holiday meals while they are working.
“It makes a big difference when you are working on Christmas and all the restaurants are closed and you can have a hot meal instead of 7-11 food,” Atlantic City Police Benevolent Association President Jules Schwenger explained.
The Hard Rock Casino not only hosted, but gave the foundation a $5,000 donation. The casino gave another $5,000 to the Atlantic City Fire Department.
The Foundation also supports various community policing and anti-violence initiatives of the Police Department, PAL and the Police Explorers. If you would like to donate to the Atlantic City Police Foundation, please send a check or money order to:
