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Stories from the Families

September 7, 2020

Voices of BackStoppers: Ashley Mudd

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The daughter of  Vinita Park Police Department's Capt. William "Mick" Mudd, EOW 12/16/10, shares her account of the day her father's death and her thoughts on BackStoppers. "Hi, my name is Ashley Mudd and this is my story. My family consisted of my mom, dad, brother […]
June 19, 2020

Julie and Zillah

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Julie Weinhold Lueck has found her passion of bringing peace to people with her four-legged partner, Zillah. She models the heart of service that was also shared with her husband, Sgt. Richard Weinhold of the St. Louis County Police Department, EOW 10/31/00. This desire to comfort […]
March 19, 2020

From the Jansen Family

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Officer Grant Jansen was killed in the line of duty in a single vehicle crash with his K9 partner who was not harmed. Officer Jansen was a 20-year law enforcement veteran. He left behind his expectant wife and son and daughter. His wife, Annette, shares her […]
December 3, 2019

The Hicks Family Tradition: Budweiser Guns ‘N Hoses

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Since 1987, Budweiser Guns ‘N Hoses has honored fallen heroes by bringing together local firefighters and police officers for an evening of boxing and support for BackStoppers. Since that first ring of the bell, Guns ‘N Hoses has raised $7.6 million for BackStoppers and has […]
December 3, 2019

“I Remember my Father by Employing his Energy and Spirit”

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Firefighter Paramedic Bradley Pierce died in the line of duty on August 6, 2000 while training for the St. Charles Fire Department’s health and wellness program. He left behind is expectant wife, Deanna, and his 19-month old son, Wyatt, who is now a young adult. […]
December 3, 2019

The First BackStoppers Family

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In September of 1959, the mission of The BackStoppers was birthed. The objective of assisting families of fallen first responders was established but was hoped to never need to be utilized. Four months later, the organization’s response to a line of duty death became a […]
July 29, 2019

“Give it to Me Straight”: Barbara’s Story

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Officer Ryan O’Connor of the Arnold Police Department was shot by a suspect he was transporting. His wife, Barbara O’Connor, relives the tragic events of December 5, 2017. Barbara shares, “Ryan always told me he knew without a doubt that the BackStoppers would rise to the […]