Trump Train rally shows community support for law enforcement, first responders

By Neal A. Johnson, UD Editor
Posted 9/30/20

LINN  — Trump Train rally Organizer Paul Stratman made the rounds Sunday visiting with many of the nearly 100 people who turned out for the event designed to support local law enforcement, …

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Trump Train rally shows community support for law enforcement, first responders

Posted

LINN  — Trump Train rally Organizer Paul Stratman made the rounds Sunday visiting with many of the nearly 100 people who turned out for the event designed to support local law enforcement, EMS, and firefighters.

“We had a really nice crowd,” said Stratman. “Everyone is very grateful to the people who put their lives on the line every day to protect us.”

Stratman saw a similar event on Facebook and wanted to provide such a gathering here.

“People across the nation are talking about defunding the police, and I just said enough was enough,” said Stratman. “We need to stand up in Osage County for law enforcement.”

He added that maintaining and supporting law enforcement here is important because of the drug problem. “A lot of people come out of the big cities and try to sell their drugs here, and it affects everybody,” said Stratman, who serves as the Osage County Public Administrator, though Sunday’s event was personal. “I’ve seen drugs tear apart families and people die young. I’ve been guardians for people in that situation, and it’s sad. Drug abuse causes mental illness, and we have to fight against that by stopping the people who bring drugs here.”

As for his support of President Trump, Stratman said he believes a vote for him is a vote to maintain law and order. “It’s important for people to realize that,” he added. “If you don’t vote for Trump, you’re voting for a candidate who will defund our police and take away our rights to defend ourselves.”

More than 50 vehicles were outfitted with the American, Trump, and other flags in support of the President, accompanied by members of the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, Linn Police Department, Linn Fire Protection District, and EMS. 

Many visitors came from other places, including one participant who drove more than two hours. They gathered at the Osage County Community Center in Linn, where pizza and beverages were provided. Stratman said he received anonymous donations to pay for the pizza, which came from Main Street Pizza at a discounted price. “We really appreciate the support Kelly has shown,” said Stratman, who gave pizza not eaten at the rally to deputies at the Cole County Jail.

Sheriff Mike Bonham said he was very impressed with Sunday’s gathering. “It was a very peaceful and enjoyable event,” he said. “We appreciate everyone coming out to show their support.”

Beyond that is a deeper connection.

“It’s very humbling,” said Bonham. “I talk to people in jurisdictions across the nation, and not all of them enjoy the backing of their community. Sunday’s event was one more reminder of how lucky we are to live here. It makes us want to work harder and do the right thing.”

Because deputies live inside the county, Bonham said there’s an ownership aspect that makes them accountable to the people they serve.

“The taxpayers are our bosses, and we do the best job we can in everything,” said Bonham. “Our love for the people here is reciprocated more than I could have imagined possible. We see it all the time. Our deputies are told often how much they are valued and appreciated, and that people are thankful for their service.”

Kelly Falter, of Freeburg, was raised in a Republican home but later decided to vote for those who shared her beliefs.

“I was back and forth,” said Falter. “I voted for the best candidate and I’m still doing that. At this point in my life, I’m with the Republicans and probably always will be. I don’t know what’s going on in the world. It’s crazy. I did not vote for Obama, but I respected the fact that he was our president.”

In this case, she is convinced Trump is the best person for the job.

“I think this is the most important election of our lives,” she said. 

Defunding police has a personal aspect for Falter, whose son, Deputy Jacob Cottingham, 21, is a new deputy.

“I lose a lot of sleep,” said Falter. “It’s scary thinking about him being out there.”

She credits Sheriff Bonham for building a strong relationship among the youth in the county through the Junior Deputy program, and for having deputies present at community events.

“Respect for law enforcement is missing in a lot of young people nowadays,” said Falter. “I raised my son to be respectful and to treat people right, with honesty and integrity. If you don’t respect your elders, there are going to be problems.”

Cottingham said his mother had a big hand in shaping the person he has become.

“I’m grateful for my mother’s influence and the impact she’s had on my life,” he said. “She and my deceased grandfather, Terry Holtmeyer, did a good job of teaching me what’s right and how to be respectful.”

Cottingham was handling a call and could not participate in Sunday’s event, but said he knows how people in Osage County feel about law enforcement.

“I’ve experienced firsthand the support of the community,” said Cottingham. “People have bought food for me, and it makes me feel weird, but I accept it with a smile on my face.”

Regardless of the complaint or problem, deputies do their best to respond with compassion and a resolve to right the wrong.

“People are grateful that we respond and take care of their issue,” said Cottingham. “I’ve received phone calls after the fact thanking me, so I know people here appreciate what we do.”

Regarding police defunding and the abolishment of law enforcement, Cottingham said that’s not a realistic scenario in Osage County.

“I’m not concerned about that happening here,” said Cottingham. “Based on how we treat people, I believe we won’t have that issue.”

LFPD Deputy Chief Brian Leivian and his family were on hand to participate in Sunday’s event, for which he is grateful.

“With so much of the negativity that’s going on in this country, it’s rewarding to see that people still support first responders,” said Leivian. “We’re able to help the community, and for people to show their support in recognition of that is very nice.”

Dan and Charlotte Schnieders, who have long supported law enforcement and military veterans, said Sunday’s event was an important reminder.

“We cannot defund the police,” Charlotte said. “Minneapolis had a 400 percent increase in crime and wondering why police aren’t answering the phone.” 

Dan, a veteran, said he has seen the loss of many traditions. “As we get close to the election, who would have thought we’d see one of our major political parties support things like convicted felons voting, to the point where fines are paid so these felons can vote? I’m all for rehabilitation, but going about it like this is simply buying a vote,” Dan said.

In support of Trump, Charlotte said it’s important to know what’s at stake.

“Biden has already adopted Bernie’s socialist plan,” she added. “Socialism doesn’t work anywhere. I don’t want to lose our country. Too many veterans have given their lives or been maimed in defense of America. It’s worth the fight to honor their sacrifice.”

Following an hour-long visit in Linn, the Trump Train headed for the capitol in Jefferson City, with an escort through town by the Linn Police Department, and to the county line by the sheriff.