DENHAM SPRINGS—Denham Springs Deputy Marshal Raymond Lee says they have now collected nearly 400 patches and 70 challenge coins for 5-year-old Liam Kelly, the son of Cpl. Shawn Kelly.
Cpl. Kelly of the Denham Springs Police was shot in the line of duty on May 11 while responding to a disturbance call. He died from his injuries on June 2.
Since Lee requested patches and coins, he said they have received patches from all over the country, personalized pins and necklaces for Liam as well as handwritten notes.
“It was awesome to see the quick response from first responders and citizens who had a collection from a relative, donate patches,” said Lee. “People, both local and across the country, have been mailing or hand delivering patches and coins. It’s exciting in the office to see the mail come and there’s a mound of packages. We all stand around like kids on Christmas Day to see what’s been sent.”
“Honestly I figured we’d get about 200 or 250 but never imagined it would be over 400 patches and 70 coins. A lot have come with notes sending prayers and comforts, which shows the love from people and the support of law enforcement,” said Lee.
“I’ve seen Shawn interact with his son, so I know they were very close. It’s hard to put into words what Shawn meant,” said Denham Springs Deputy Marshal Raymond Lee. “Our paths crossed initially at the Baton Rouge Constable’s Office, and then they crossed again when I became full-time at the marshal’s office in Denham Springs. Shawn was always very personable. He had a great sense of humor, but he also took his job very seriously. For me, Shawn was a great person and colleague.”
Lee says collecting patches and challenge coins to present to Shawn Kelly’s son, Liam, is his way of helping, supporting, and giving back to the family.
“I feel in my heart that all the benefits are for Cpl. Shawn Kelly and his wife, but what are we doing to put a smile on a child’s face? That’s my entire goal here,” said Lee.
“If my family was in this position, there are people who would do it for my kids,” he added. “This is a great way for Liam to be able to look back and see all the support from first responders.”
Lee welcomes patches and challenge coins from any and all agencies, not just police or sheriff’s offices. Anyone wanting to send patches or coins can mail them to:
Denham Springs Marshal’s Office
Attention: Deputy Raymond Lee
116 North Range Ave., Denham Springs, LA 70726
“I would like to thank all the people who I personally reached out to for patches. They didn’t even ask a single question and simply jumped on the bandwagon. In some cases, they’re brand new to the agency and got us a patch,” said Lee.
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