Columnist takes unfair shot

EDITOR,
Press-Banner columnist Steve Bailey was right to praise firefighters Aug. 21, “Thanks to the firefighters.” The recent Lockheed Fire spotlighted the heroism, bravery and difficult job that firefighters face.
Unfortunately, the positive tenor of Mr. Bailey’s column was marred by his offensive comments about police officers. Mr. Bailey praises the nobility of firefighters, but then writes, “Their code seems dramatically more honorable than that of the other public agency often linked with firefighters — the police. With cops, the internal fraternity seems all about covering one another for lies and misdeeds, conspiring against the public, which is viewed as the enemy.”
That’s quite an indictment, but also a perfect illustration of undignified writing and narrow-minded thinking.
Contrary to Mr. Bailey’s disgust for police officers, I have considered it a privilege to work in this proud profession. I have witnessed so many police acts of kindness, empathy, sacrifice and bravery. I have attended too many funerals of officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. I have hugged their children, who undoubtedly disagree with Mr. Bailey’s assessment of their fallen parents’ profession.
We need more civility and less hyperbole in public discourse today. Columnists have the unique power to influence and elevate our thinking. Sadly, Mr. Bailey diluted what could have been a wonderful column and will likely leave even firefighters scratching their heads over his anti-police rhetoric.
John P. Weiss, chief, Scotts Valley Police Department