Letter: "Protect And Serve"

We've all heard the motto that our boys in blue are "to protect and serve". Sometimes the questions must be asked, "Protect what? Serve what?"

Don't get me wrong. I respect police. I have many friends who have chosen this as their profession. I don't toss around derogatory terms when referring to them. Even when I've been pulled over, I provide a good example to my son on how to respect officers, admit fault, and accept punishment.

I know these officers and patrolmen risk their lives and safety by entering into certain situations in the call of duty. Sometimes, though, I have to wonder if they only "protect" their interests and "serve" warrants and tickets.

I helped a stranded motorist today who was pushing her car down I-26 in North Charleston. She reported that no less than five patrol cars passed them as she and another female friend were pushing her car along the shoulder. My wife reminded me that she broke down on 526, hood up, seven months pregnant, and five patrol cars passed her by without stopping.

I'm sure each North Charleston city officer or highway patrol had a perfectly valid reason for bypassing these women on these occasions. Hopefully none of those reasons had to do with the women not being attractive enough, or driving a good enough car, or being the right color, or looking helpless enough. Equally I hope the reasons didn't include being near the end of one's shift, abusing taxpayer dollars by using the "company car" for personal use and thus not stopping while in plain clothes, or preferring to do something that will improve "the bottom line" over taking care of one's fellow man.

Have faith, North Charlestonians. The sixth officer stopped for my wife. By my unofficial count, that means that 1/11 of the force are good guys that you'd like to have around if your mother or wife or daughter (or YOU) needs some roadside assistance.

Scott McCain

Red Cypress Drive

Goose Creek