Thursday, October 1, 2026
Hundreds of children at Wantagh Park Summer Camp had the opportunity to meet the men and women who help keep Nassau County safe during the third annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.
State Sen. Steve Rhoads teamed up with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and the Nassau County Police Department for the event, which gave about 400 campers an up-close look at the work performed by local law enforcement officers.
The event featured demonstrations and conversations with members of several specialized units within the Nassau County Police Department, including the K-9 Unit, Marine Bureau, Bureau of Special Operations, Emergency Services Unit, Mounted Unit, Motorcycle Platoon and officers from the 7th Precinct.
Throughout the day, officers showed campers their specialized equipment, explained their responsibilities and answered questions about their roles in the community. Organizers said the event was designed to create positive interactions between young residents and law enforcement while helping children better understand the work officers do each day.
“Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is a wonderful opportunity for our young people to meet the dedicated officers who serve and protect our neighborhoods every day,” Rhoads said. “By giving children the chance to interact with these incredible men and women, we strengthen trust, foster understanding, and inspire respect for those who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.”
Rhoads thanked Blakeman and the Nassau County Police Department for helping organize the event and recognized the officers who participated.
The annual program is part of Rhoads’ continued efforts to highlight community engagement and recognize the contributions of local law enforcement. The event also provides campers with the chance to learn about the different roles and responsibilities within the police department.
Officers from across the department spent the day connecting with campers, demonstrating their skills and showing the importance of teamwork and public service.
