By Matt Smith/msmith@trcle.com
This year’s Serving Those Who Serve Day will honor Cleburne police officer David Hogan and act as a fundraiser for his family, said pastor Danny Moon, president of the Johnson County Fire Chaplains Association.
The event, now in its third year, also recognizes and honors first responders in Johnson County, including emergency care officials from CareFlite, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and county police and fire departments.
Hogan died Aug. 7 after a traffic accident while he was driving home from work.
Cleburne police officers recently announced plans to complete renovations Hogan began on his house before his death.
“This is the day we show all our first responders our appreciation for putting their lives on the line each day to protect our families,” Moon said.
The event takes place at 11 a.m. Nov. 21 at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Grounds in Cleburne and is free and open to the public.
The day includes free barbecue lunch for all first responders and their families at noon. Lunch is also available to members of the public who make a donation to cover the cost.
Other events include open team roping and barrel racing events, sponsored by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse, for anyone who wants to enter.
Sign-ups begin at 11 a.m. with roping events beginning at 1:30 a.m. and barrel racing events at 6:30 p.m. Entry fees range from $25 to $40.
Several world champion all-around cowboys and cowgirls will be on hand, Moon said.
Medical air helicopters from CareFlite and other organizations will be on display, and Texas game wardens will bring their Operation Game Thief Trailer.
An auction is also scheduled, Moon said.
The auction will include a University of Texas football signed by players and many other items, he said. Moon said donations of auction items are still needed and welcome.
Speakers scheduled include County Judge Roger Harmon, state Rep. Rob Orr, R-Burleson, and U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco.
Help wanted
Sponsors and volunteers are still needed for the event, Moon said. Anyone interested is encouraged to call 817-223-3089.
“This will be a day of networking and just lots of fun for the family but most of all to volunteer and give back to our community that has lost one of its own,” Moon said. “It’s a chance to bring the community together for our fallen officer and all our first responders.”
