Abbotsford police are honouring fallen Const. John Davidson in their annual Christmas card.
The department usually releases a “nice” and “naughty” card, with the latter intended for gang members and prolific offenders.
But 2017 was a difficult year for the department and the city after losing Davidson in the line of duty in November.
“We lost a friend, colleague and family member in Constable John Davidson, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the protection of his community,” the department said in a release.
“The response from the greater first responder family across the globe was incredible. The support from citizens in Abbotsford, the province of British Columbia and beyond was absolutely amazing. For that reason, we felt the 2017 Christmas Card should reflect both the tragic circumstances we continue to grapple with as well as the enormous gratitude we feel for all of the support we received.”
The card this year depicts Santa, Abbotsford police chief Bob Rich, taking a knee next to first responders from across the Lower Mainland.
This was also something Rich addressed at Davidson’s Celebration of Life when he said first responders should take care of their mental well-being and not be ashamed to “take a knee” and get help and get well before returning to work.
“We wanted to acknowledge the tremendous support that has come our way from first responders across the planet, as well as citizens, not just in Abbotsford but well beyond,” said Const. Ian MacDonald, public information officer for the Abbotsford police.