The Black Band

By Mike Simmons

Pensacola Police Officers are proud to wear the badge. They began sporting them in 1882 and have displayed them on the left side of their chest since. The metal it takes to make a badge usually weighs less than a pound. But the weight when it is pinned on is enormous.

When an officer pins on the PPD shield, he or she now bears the responsibility of protecting the citizens of our town and keeping the peace. Sometimes that is rewarding, while at other times it is difficult. But when that badge is first put on, that responsibility lives with that officer until it comes off for good.

There are times when the badge is even heavier than normal. At such times, officers dread putting it on, but are very proud to…to carry on. That is when the badge is draped with a black band. It never weighs more.

The only time the black band is worn is when a brother or sister officer dies. In a strange sort of way, it is an elite club, a privilege to have the badge worn for you. It means you have given the ultimate sacrifice to the people.

The black band crosses all lines of jurisdiction. If a PPD officer is killed, officers for miles will drape the shield. If officers from another location dies, PPD officers mournfully dress the badge in black. It hurts the heart.

On April 2, 2025, it happened in Walton County. Deputy William May responded to a minor call to escort a man from a store, when the man turned and opened fire on the deputy striking him several times. Most of the rounds struck May’s body armor, but one struck him beneath the vest. Deputy May returned fire, killing the suspect immediately. William May died later that evening.

Deputy May was the latest of the officers who have died in the line of duty in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton County. Sixty-eight officers and four K9s have died.

God bless you, Officers. There is an army of warriors ready to take the watch.