By Korinna Barth, for the Mirror

The first Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics was completed in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas. Since then, law enforcement around the world has been the Guardian of the Flame for the Special Olympics and cheerleaders for athletes at the Special Olympic Games locally, nationally and internationally.

Our very own Federal Way Police Department helped run the Flame of Hope to the opening ceremony for the Special Olympics Washington Spring Games at Pacific Lutheran University on June 9, 2023.

Officers received the Flame of Hope from Kent Police Department at the north border of Federal Way and handed it off to the Washington State Patrol at the sound end. The total trip through the city was just over 6 miles.

During the journey, they were joined by Special Olympic athlete student Arianna Graham and her mother Andrea. These officers are committed to help spread the message of inclusion throughout our community.

Along with supporting Special Olympic athletes, officers raise money to help support the cause. Internationally, since 1981, law enforcement has raised just under $1 billion for Special Olympics.

The Federal Way Police Department runners are Chief Andy Hwang, Corporal Hilary Mariani, Officer Alessandro Mariani and Officer Donovan Heavener.

Federal Way Police Department bike officers are Corporal Nic Peterson and Officer Blake Losvar.

Photos courtesy of Korinna Barth, Korinna B. Photography

Photo courtesy of Korinna B. Photography

Photo courtesy of Korinna B. Photography