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Sohn: Fallen officer is all of Chattanooga’s loss

A Chattanooga Police Officer rubs his temples as he and others wait on a warrant Sunday, February 24, 2019, in the 200 block of Port Drive in Hixson, Tennessee. The vehicle suspected to be involved in the hit-and-run of Officer Nicholas Galinger Saturday was found in the Port Drive neighborhood.
A Chattanooga Police Officer rubs his temples as he and others wait on a warrant Sunday, February 24, 2019, in the 200 block of Port Drive in Hixson, Tennessee. The vehicle suspected to be involved in the hit-and-run of Officer Nicholas Galinger Saturday was found in the Port Drive neighborhood. A Chattanooga Police Officer rubs his temples as he and others wait on a warrant Sunday, February 24, 2019, in the 200 block of Port Drive in Hixson, Tennessee. The vehicle suspected to be involved in the hit-and-run of Officer Nicholas Galinger Saturday was found in the Port Drive neighborhood.

By Pam Sohn 6 min read

When most of us are staying inside – away from bad weather, bad people, fires or other scary stuff – police and other first responders are bearing the elements, charging in, forming a thin, human blue wall to warn us and protect us from danger.

All too often, we forget about the bravery an officer or firefighter must summon each day to answer the call of his or her chosen vocation.

Every few years, however, one falls in the line of duty – reminding us of the great debt we owe for their deep sense of responsibility toward providing the rest of society with peace and protection.

Unfortunately, we have another reminder in Chattanooga today.

photo Contributed Photo Officer Nicholas Galinger

Chattanooga Police Officer Nicholas Galinger, 38, was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver as he stood on Hamill Road in Hixson inspecting a manhole gushing water late Saturday night.