Indianapolis mourned a hero today. Office Rod Bradway was laid to rest, nearly a week after he gave his life to save another during a domestic violence call. His funeral was full of beautiful words, praising Bradway's life and character. Thousands came to pay their respects. The police escort for the funeral procession took well over an hour to pass and included hundreds of vehicles.

The streets closed and thousands of citizens left their desks and took to the sidewalks to show their respect.


Some stood in the hot sun for hours, a simple gesture to send a message. We mourn Officer Bradway, we celebrate his life and we honor his family. There was a collective pride in the city not felt since its people united to host the Superbowl.

When the hearse drove by, officers saluted the casket and civilians stood still. One lady waved a huge American flag. One guy held two thumbs up as the casket passed, followed by the family's limo. You could see tears in the eyes of those not wearing sunglasses. But there was also something else - a sense of pride, respect.

Police officers get a lot of flack. They aren't always popular. Nobody wants to to be stopped for a traffic violation. Nobody wants to be told they have to stop doing something they already know they shouldn't be doing. But the truth is, when you're in trouble, scared out of your mind, there's nobody you'd rather see walking towards you. And today, while thousands of officers from across the city, the state and yes, even the country filled the streets, there was nobody we'd have rather seen.

Their quiet dignity spoke volumes and their massive presence gave assurance, somehow.

The funeral procession and the respect it commanded along the streets of Indianapolis, are a quiet reminder of all things right with the city. While there will always be people who break the law, steal our peace, and take lives, there are more yet, that stand for kindness, respect and love. Officer Bradway was a fine example of that, but there are more. Yes, some are civil servants for our city, but others are neighbors, friends or even strangers.

This city is full of people who believe in taking care of each other, lending a hand. Not everyone is brave enough to take a bullet to save the life of a stranger the way Officer Bradway did. Not everyone is called to do so. But throughout the city, there are people in need of something, be it a warm bed, food or maybe, just a friend. And this city can fill those needs. Let's honor the memory of our city's fallen heroes the best way we know how. Let us live the way they did.
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