Tyler's Troops

My name is Everett Trainer and I am a resident of Cranston, RI. I have been following the story of now seven year old, Tyler Seddon, who is battling leukemia for the second time. It all started with a Facebook post from his mother asking for birthday cards from his heroes, first responders and military personnel. The response was overwhelming to say the least.

Police officers, firefighters, EMT's, and members of the armed forces from all over the world sent gifts and cards. Even more, myself included, posted to his Facebook page, Tyler's Troops. For the past few weeks, I have been seeing other posts on his page and my reaction is always an intense smile. On March 6th, 2014, Tyler celebrated his birthday. But it was not just any birthday! He didn't just get cards and gifts, but first responders from around the country flocked to Burrillville to celebrate with this brave young man.

I arrived at Wright's Farm just after 8am. I watched the earlier preparations including East Greenwich Ladder 1 and Burrillville's Ladder 2 raising their aerials and flying the American flag. Then shortly after, the massive convoy made their entrance with lights flashing and sirens wailing. It was so impressive! At the time, I was at a loss for words. I had never seen anything like it. There were police officers, county sheriff's deputies, state troopers, federal agents, and firefighters from all over! If I were to list the agencies, this would be a mile long. I took pictures of as many cruisers and fire apparatuses as I could. To put it into perspective, I took over 500 photos and that was just a portion of everybody who was there! 

It is always amazing, inspiring, and just flat out awesome when the brotherhood and sisterhood comes together for something like this. These are truly great people doing a truly great deed! Yesterday made me want to be a part of this family even more. The Cranston Police and Fire Departments were among those represented. I am honored and very proud to say that I interact with these officers and firefighters. I am proud to say that I know some of them.

Tyler, I hope you had a very happy birthday! Stay strong and win this battle! You are an inspiration to many!