The 26-year-old, who underwent brain surgery and spent roughly a month on a ventilator, was a rookie Louisville police officer, having just graduated from the police academy 11 days before the shooting that left five people dead and others injured.

He was one of the first officers on the scene and ran toward the gunfire without hesitating.

While they have recently vilified some police officers (and rightfully so) for abusing their authority and have been tried for negligence and even cowardice for not moving toward the sound of the guns.

It’s important to recognize the bravery and sacrifice the other 99% of police officers make daily to protect people they don’t even know and don’t normally make national headlines.

Ofc. Wilt, family, and some of our other hero officers, Ofcs. Galloway, Moss, Shaw, and Smallwood accompanying him. Thank you for your service, Officer Wilt! ? #LMPD #WiltsWarriors #LouisvilleStrong pic.twitter.com/nuocESruYe

— LMPD (@LMPD) July 28, 2023

Officer Witt has earned that recognition. Great job, Officer Witt, and best of luck with your continued recovery!

By Richard McKearney

Richard is a freelance security and protection professional. Mentoring the next generation of law enforcement Assistant Chief Inspector (Retired) US Marshals Service