Crossing Blue Bridges

By: Nicholas Betts

Narrated by: James M Flory

What did you want to be when you grew up? For a long time, I wanted to be a walking talking real life superhero. For over eight years, I pursued that vision of myself in trying to become a police officer. With each attempt at selection, and with each letter of decline, I grew hungrier and more determined to make it. It’s answering the highest calling in serving my community, I said during my interview. The selflessness, the sacrifice, the unfathomable courage, and commitment to serve.

Finally, I had my shot. My dream had been realised. In three years, I served as a role model, and a protector for my community. I faced everyday what so much of society should never have to see or be exposed to. This is my story, a raw, honest, and open account of life as a South Australian police officer, and the most profound three years of my life. Violence, foot chases, car chases, mental health, domestic violence, and all extremes of human nature. I discovered trying to live everyday as a superhero, can bring its own personal struggles and conflicts. I hope this serves to inspire others, who are considering and are already a part of this incredible career. It’s my humble pleasure to share with you some of the greatest lessons I learnt, what I experienced, and the awe I was in everyday of the heroic actions of the men and women who uphold that blue bridge that separates society from falling into all out chaos.

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