Blue Ribbon Walk Commemorates Oak Lawn First Responders

OAK LAWN, IL -- Walk a mile in a police officer or firefighter’s shoes this Saturday, June 8, at Oak Lawn’s Blue Ribbon Walk. Everyone is welcome to come out and show their support for our first responders. Walkers will start gathering at 10 a.m. behind PD’s Place, 5407 95th St., then step off at noon for an eight-block jaunt through the neighborhood.

The Oak Lawn Fire Department and a color guard from Johnson-Phelps VFW Post 5220 will lead the procession. A celebration is planned afterward in Lake Shore Park., led by the Oak Lawn Fire Department and color guard from Johnson-Phelps VFW Post 5220.

This year’s Blue Ribbon Walk is dedicated to the memories of CPD Officers Conrad Gary, Eduardo Marmolejo and Samuel Jimenez, who were killed in the line of duty last fall. Gary grew up in Oak Lawn and graduated from Oak Lawn Community High School.

>>> Watch last year's Blue Ribbon Walk

The Blue Ribbon Walk is the brainchild of Mike Cerf, a member of the Oak Lawn Raiders, a civic organization that performs good works in the community. Cerf first organized the walk five years ago, which has since blossomed into a community event with many adults, children and local businesses getting involved.

"It supports all first responders," Cerf said. "We want to acknowledge the police and fire departments. The real reason I took the initiative was because of all the negative publicity police were getting across the country. Let's make sure they get home."

Popular local songstress Kate Sullivan will lead walkers in the National Anthem. Sullivan might also be persuaded to belt out a few other tunes with her band -- she's awesome.

Afterward, hang out with first responders in Lake Shore Park at 54th Avenue and 95th Street, where the Oak Lawn Raiders will be serving up a complimentary Italian sausage lunch.