Contributed
On Sunday, May 16, 2021, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with staff and students from West Bladen High School, participated in the 2021 Law enforcement Torch run for Special Olympics. A combined total of 13 individuals participated in the event held at West Bladen High School, Dublin, North Carolina.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas by Police Chief Richard LaMunyon. He thought the Torch Run would help Law enforcement be active in the community and support Special Olympics. The mission of the Law Enforcement Torch run is to raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics movement.
The flame from the torch symbolizes courage and celebration of diversity uniting communities around the globe. The torch run included a total of four laps around the track. The torch was carried the first lap by Sheriff Jim McVicker, who passed it on to Chief Deputy Mac Warner for the second lap, who passed it on to Deputy Shella Y. Stephens for the third lap, and the final lap the torch was carried by Deputy Jessica Portalatin, Bladen County Sheriff’s Office.
What started in 1981 as a flicker of hope for Special Olympics has now become a roaring flame of stability for Special Olympics athletes worldwide. Thanks to all involved and all that showed up and participated in the Torch Run. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to next year’s Torch Run.
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