Those who attended Friday night’s high school football game at Ben’s Ford Christian School were treated to a spectacle at the start of the game.

Last week was “Spirit Week” at Ben’s Ford, as the students participated in a variety of patriotic and school spirit activities throughout the week. The festivities culminated at the start of Friday night’s game, as members of the local Voiture 1360 of 40 & 8 of the Louisiana Grand, as well as members of the Magic City Post 24 of the American Legion, presented the colors and performed the national anthem.

However, they also imbued the ceremony with an additional significance. They paused for a few moments to recognize the lives of two Louisiana law enforcement officers, who were killed earlier this month.

Senior Trooper Steven Vincent was shot in Calcasieu Parish by a stranded motorist stuck in a ditch, on Sunday, Aug. 30. He died from his wounds the following day, leaving behind a wife and 9-year-old son.

Two days later, Sunset police officer Henry Nelson was killed by his cousin during a reported domestic dispute. Unfortunately, Louisiana is no stranger to violence against law enforcement officers. In 2015, there have already been nine such deaths, tying Texas for the most in the nation.

On Friday, the local members of veterans’ organizations honored Vincent and Nelson’s memories by performing a 21-gun salute before the football game. Bugler Gary Rushing also performed “Taps,” in honor of the fallen officers.

It was truly inspirational to see one group of heroes salute another group of heroes. Both the military and law enforcement officers choose to put their lives on the line every day, often working long hours and receiving public scorn for their efforts. Certainly there are bad apples in every bunch, but the majority of our soldiers and police officers are noble men and women who deserve our respect and pride.

Bravo to Ben’s Ford and the veterans’ groups for honoring those heroes Friday.