Law Enforcement Torch Run starts in DeSoto County
The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is a global initiative that unites law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics programs. In Mississippi, LETR plays a significant role in supporting Special Olympics Mississippi by organizing events and fundraising activities throughout the state. Monday, the torch run began its journey to the state Special Olympics in Biloxi with stops in DeSoto County.
LETR began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas, and has grown into the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics worldwide. Law enforcement officers, known as “Guardians of the Flame,” carry the “Flame of Hope” to the opening ceremonies of local, state, national, and international Special Olympics competitions.
In Mississippi, LETR activities are coordinated by Special Olympics Mississippi. Each year, law enforcement officers volunteer their time to participate in various fundraising events, including t-shirt sales, donations, and physical challenges like push-up contests. These efforts have significantly contributed to supporting athletes and programs across the state.
One of the hallmark events is the annual Torch Run, where officers and athletes carry the Flame of Hope across different regions of Mississippi. This relay culminates at the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Mississippi Summer Games, where the torch is used to light the cauldron, officially commencing the games.
Monday morning, the torch made stops in Olive Branch, Southaven and Hernando before it went on toward Tunica. Byhalia Police Department Officer Jeff Bell is a local coordinator for the LETR in the area.
“Our job is to spread awareness and help out with the events,” Bell said. “It’s just a great way for law enforcement to come together and show their support for the Special Olympics.”
During a stop in Hernando, Special Olympians from DeSoto County were joined by Sheriff’s Department deputies and Hernando police officers to run with the torch twice around the Courthouse Square.
Special Olympics and the Torch Run have special meaning for Bell, whose 24-year old son Matthew is autistic and competes in the Olympics.
Bell said Matthew has become successful through high school and attending the University of Memphis in the school’s Tiger Life program. Matthew now works at the Lost Pizza Company.
“About nine years ago, we got involved with the Special Olympics, and it was kind of a scary thing, because anytime your child does something new, you’re worried if he’s going to be accepted,” Bell said. “Matthew walked out on the court and within two minutes, all these athletes, Dan and Daniel, you would have thought they’d known each other their whole life.”
Bell said Matthew will be involved in the long jump, 200 meters, and the 4×100 meter relay.
Bell added that one of the things Matthew likes to say is, “Medals are great, but most important is to have fun. That’s how they all feel.”
