Simmonds, Dennis DJ Unsung Hero Foundation

I, Jean G. Jean-Louis would like to announce that I will run the 128th Boston Marathon in HONOR of Police Officer Dennis Oliver "DJ" Simmonds. Officer Simmonds made the ultimate sacrifice, and gave his life in service to his community, as a young public servant. Police Officer Dennis Simmonds was promoted to Sergeant posthumously under Boston's 54th Mayor and HONORED by the 44th President of the United States for his response to those in need, and heroic fight against those responsible for the Boston Marathon Bombings (2013). I will run with RESPECT for many who have been and continue to be adversely impacted by those horrific days. At the time of death, he was 28 years old-- a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend and police partner. He was a profound Boston Police partner, friend, and colleague with a remarkable presence that was felt by many active/retired Boston Officers to date. It is with deep regard and RESPECT of Sergeant Simmonds' sacrifice for the people of Boston I will run. I will run out of the immense RESPECT for each and every heavy heart that remains among his family, friends, and fellow police officers to include myself. I will run for the love we also carry in our hearts for Sergeant Simmonds every day. I will run out of RESPECT for the many students of the Boston Police Academy (past & present) who are and continue to be inspired by Sergeant Simmonds' dedication to duty, service, and sacrifice. Sergeant Simmonds protected all those who visited the City of Boston, and those who called BOSTON HOME. I had the distinct privilege to experience Sergeant Simmonds' dedication to PUBLIC SERVICE as his police partner for 6 years with the Boston Police Department. Sergeant Simmonds' solemn sacrifice is echoed not only within the Boston Community but is etched at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall in Washington D.C. and at the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial in Boston. Sergeant Simmonds' sacrifice subsequently inspired me to name my son after him, and also inspired my desire to serve in the United States Armed Forces. Such inspiration has allowed me to serve our Nation in the United States Coast Guard. Please join me in support of the Dennis DJ Simmonds Unsung Hero Foundation and its connection to the 128th Boston Marathon scheduled on April 15th, 2024. Thank you for your support and kind donation. Special Thanks to the Boston Police Peer Support Unit for anchoring our BOSTON STRONG RESILIENCE.