Shine a Light

My husband, Martin Joseph Walsh, 6125, wanted nothing more in life than to become a New Jersey Police Officer. At the age of 20, he was selected to join the academy. Martin graduated in the 127th class on November 21, 2001.  From there he dedicated himself to becoming the best state police officer possible.  He was insanely passionate about his job and was extremely proactive in the field. Martin was not one to "sit around" as he wanted to make a difference. Despite the drive and ambition he had to help others, he suffered side effects from the trauma endured during his daily duties as an officer.

Martin suffered from PTSD, depression and alcohol addiction. He was aware of these problems and was proactively working on bettering himself through services offered at his job. Despite the desire to get better, his love for his family and his dedication to service, the years of trauma endured, was too much for him to bear. He took his life on January 5, 2018, leaving behind a 7-year-old daughter, a 5-year-old son, and a loving wife.

Martin was the 4th officer in 2018 to take his life. As of April 10, 2018, 42 officers throughout the country have taken their own lives.

Police suicide, mental illness and addiction are affecting our officers at an alarming rate. Our organization aims to help these officers and their families by shining a light on these struggles, promoting awareness and helping the families in crisis.

Whether you help through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or spreading our mission through word-of-mouth, thank you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you.