On September 20, 2013, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Rod Bradway, a Kosciusko County native, was mortally wounded while saving a domestic violence victim and her ten-month-old child. In the aftermath, Rod’s mother, Sheri, turned to her passion of quilting as a tribute to her son. Subsequently, Sheri and her quilter’s group formed A Quilt for Mother’s Tears; which provides quilts to the mothers of fallen law enforcement officers.
Tom Bradway, Rod’s father, approached Sheriff Kyle P. Dukes earlier this year about purchasing ballistic vests for the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Division; specifically for the working dogs. Sgt. Travis Shively, division commander, spent numerous hours researching the proper vest style for the program. Once Sgt. Shively decided upon Armor Express Tex 10, with Gemini ballistic and stab protection, Tom and Sheri graciously donated three vests; which will be worn during Special Operations Group (SOG) and high-risk situations.
Chris Trowbridge, owner of Maverick Promotions in North Webster, designed a memorial patch to be worn on top of the vest carriers. The body armor was recently issued to our K-9 deputies and is now part of their daily duty complement. “I am appreciative of the graciousness of the Bradway family and the opportunity to honor Rod’s legacy,” stated Sheriff Dukes.
