Tampa Republic

The Tampa Police Department is set to host an appreciation event at Raymond James Stadium this afternoon, recognizing the efforts of those involved in responding to Hurricane Milton. Scheduled for 5:00 pm, the event aims to honor both local officers and the 81 police officers from partner agencies who provided essential mutual aid.

Mayor Jane Castor expressed gratitude towards these officers, stating, "While it was all hands on deck for every City of Tampa employee, we are incredibly thankful to every police officer who willingly responded from across Florida to help our city recover quickly." She highlighted that despite the hurricane hitting the Gulf Coast, its effects were widespread throughout Florida.

Chief Lee Bercaw also acknowledged the contributions of the visiting officers, saying, "I am profoundly grateful to the officers from across Florida who answered the call after Hurricane Milton. Their response and unwavering dedication to public safety provided an additional layer of comfort and reassurance to our residents during a time of uncertainty."

The event will include addresses from Mayor Castor and Chief Bercaw directed towards both Tampa's police personnel and visiting officers before they return home.

The agencies that assisted include Ft. Lauderdale Police Department, Lauderhill Police Department, Margate Police Department, North Palm Beach Police Department, North Port Police Department, Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, Pembroke Pines Police Department, Plantation Police Department, St. Augustine Police Department, and Tavares Police Department.

The Tampa Police Department expressed sincere gratitude for their collaboration in making Tampa safer following Hurricane Milton.