Almost 800 students packed the Mount Elden Middle School gymnasium in Flagstaff to say 'thank you' to local law enforcement Thursday.
A group of students initiated the event that was themed around the slogan "Hands Out: We Appreciate You," a motto created by the students.
"We realized after (Officer) Tyler Stewart's death how unappreciated the police are," said Crystal Lang, an 8th grader at Mount Elden. "So we wanted to spread (that message) to make sure everyone in this community feels appreciated."
Flagstaff Mayor Jerry Nabours acted as the master of ceremonies and although the event was a celebration of law enforcement, it was also a time to reflect on the life of Tyler Stewart, who was killed in the line of duty on Dec. 27.
"We are going to have a 24 second moment of silence to remember a Flagstaff police officer who died last month who was only 24 years old," Nabours said.
Several members from various law enforcement departments were in attendance and Flagstaff Police Chief Kevin Treadway spoke briefly.
And winners of the "Hands Out: We Appreciate You" essay and art contest were announced and students had a chance to showcase their entries.
"Thank you to all the men and women who fight to keep Flagstaff safe," said Jalen Rinne, an essay contest winner. "Thank you that I can go to bed at night knowing that I am safe. Thank you to officer Tyler Stewart who died trying to keep us safe. I am grateful for all these brave men and women who not only serve us, but cities and countries all over the world."
In addition, special "appreciation" bracelets were gifted from the students to the Flagstaff Police Department and are also being sold with all proceeds benefiting Stewart's family.
