Harford County marked a somber anniversary with acts of community service, as two events took place to honor the memory of Senior Deputy Patrick Dailey and Deputy First Class Mark Logsdon. The two Harford County sheriff's deputies who were fatally shot a decade ago, were remembered at both a blood drive and a fundraiser yesterday.
The blood drive, which was organized by the deputies’ families, supported the American Red Cross and was hosted at the American Legion Post 17. "It’s something good that came out of something horrible, and the fact that our families led this charge is extra special to me and the men and women of this office," Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler said, in a statement obtained by WBAL. More than 100 people signed up for the drive which has become an annual tradition, honoring the sacrifice of the fallen officers.
According to a CBS News Baltimore interview, Marder indicated that Tuesday's blood drive would save at least 100 lives – adding to the hundreds saved in the past by this event. "We are down about 35% in terms of the blood that should be on the shelves and people were not able to get out to blood drives to donate because of the weather," Marder explained.
Simultaneously, a fundraiser took place at the Texas Roadhouse in Fallston, benefiting the Police Unity Tour, which draws a contingent from the sheriff's office to ride in remembrance of their fellow officers. Harford County Sheriff’s Capt. Mike Schleper, told WBAL, "Each member has to raise $2,100. We have 12 riders this year, so we have to raise around $25,000." As of the event, they were halfway to their goal.
The continued community support through these acts of service highlights the lasting impact of the fallen deputies on Harford County. Echoing the sentiments of a grateful community, Thomas Rowan Sr., a donor at the blood drive, shared with CBS News Baltimore, "I think it shows the law enforcement that we're all behind them. We appreciate them and we're here to support them in any way that we can."
