I want to give a HUGE shoutout to a Woodstock police officer whose name, unfortunately, I never got. Recently, my mom was pulling into the Sam’s Shopping Center when her car suddenly ran out of gas. She was stranded, unsure of what to do next. Thankfully, this officer arrived on the scene and showed incredible kindness and patience.

Instead of rushing her off or making the situation more stressful, he let her wait safely there until I could bring some gas over. I thought I had brought enough to get her car started, but it turned out it wasn’t quite enough. Seeing this, the officer didn’t hesitate to step in and help.

He volunteered to push her car using his patrol vehicle to get it to the gas station. When the car didn’t quite make it all the way, he got out of his car and physically pushed it the rest of the way — all with a calm, easygoing attitude, as if it was no big deal at all.

To us, though, it was a huge deal. His willingness to go above and beyond, to choose kindness and lend a hand when he absolutely didn’t have to, made a lasting impression. Moments like these remind us that behind the uniform are real people dedicated to serving their community with compassion.

So thank you, Woodstock Police Department, for having such amazing officers on your team! Your kindness did not go unnoticed and made what could have been a frustrating day into something we’ll remember with gratitude.