CLEVELAND — One local man has taken it upon himself to honor Cleveland police officer, Detective James Skernivitz, who was recently killed in the line of duty.
When Daniel Tome II was approached by the widow of Officer Skernivitz and asked if there was any way he could make a mask honoring the fallen officer, Tome did not hesitate to jump into action.
"I immediately called her as I knew they wouldn't be thinking of just a few, and sure enough, every officer of the CPD that attends [the funeral] will have one and then some. It was their idea as they wanted to honor a great man that meant so much to their family," the local police-supporter told 3News.
While Tome did not know Officer Skernivitz personally, he believes that honoring the Cleveland detective is something that all Northeast Ohioans should do.
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"For 22 years he did what he signed up to do at the highest honor to the badge and the citizens he swore to protect," Tome told 3News, "All while being a great husband, father, son, uncle, and friend. Most undoubtedly missing family functions we are so fortunate to be able to attend."
All money raised from sales will be used to provide masks to other officers in the Northeast Ohio area. Tome says the masks are a great way to protect the ones who protect us.
"I want to thank all the everyday citizens who stepped up and made donations to help raise the funds needed for this to happen," Tome told 3News, "With that in mind we need to do more of this, not just when tragedy strikes though. See an officer, thank an Officer."
In total, more than 4000 masks have been made and distributed.