Two Smithfield Police K-9’s will be safer on patrol thanks to donated vests.
On Wednesday, Friends of Hometown Heroes Inc. donated two new bullet proof and stab proof vests to the Smithfield Police Department for use with their K-9’s Diesel and Argo.
Wade Rosar, Event Coordinator for Friends of Hometown Heroes, said the organization holds fundraisers and uses the money to provide necessary equipment for local heroes so they can perform their daily duties as safely as possible. The company has provided ballistic vests to other agencies, turnout gear to local fire departments, and equipment for volunteer EMS agencies.
The company also supports active duty military personnel and their children.
Friends of Hometown Heroes was formed in 2015 and initially served only Wake County. In 2016 they began providing assistance to first responders in Johnston County. They hope to expand to more counties in the next few years with the vision of being large enough to help departments throughout the Southeast within 20 years.
Smithfield Police Chief Keith Powell said he was appreciative of the two donated K-9’s vests which costs $700 each. “The department was very grateful for the donation of these vests, which will further help protect Diesel and Argo in the performance of their duties.”
