Heroes Behind the Badge

Citizens Behind the Badge
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Heroes Behind the Badge

From the front lines to the final call, Heroes Behind the Badge brings you the untold stories of America's law enforcement community. Led by Craig Floyd, who spent 34 years working alongside police officers across the nation, alongside veteran facilitator Dennis Collins and law enforcement expert Bill Erfurth, this podcast cuts through misconceptions to reveal the true nature of modern policing. Our dynamic trio brings unique perspectives to each episode: Craig shares deep insights from his decades of experience and relationships within law enforcement, Dennis guides conversations with meticulous research and natural flow, and Bill adds engaging commentary that makes complex law enforcement topics accessible to all listeners. Each episode features in-depth conversations with law enforcement professionals, sharing their firsthand experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Drawing from extensive research and real-world experience, we explore the realities faced by the over 800,000 officers who serve and protect our communities every day. From dramatic accounts of crisis response to quiet moments of everyday heroism, our show illuminates the human stories behind the badge. We dive deep into the statistics, policies, and practices that shape modern law enforcement, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of what it truly means to serve in law enforcement today. Whether you're a law enforcement professional, a concerned citizen, or someone seeking to understand the complexities of modern policing, Heroes Behind the Badge provides the context, insights, and authentic perspectives you won't find anywhere else. Join us weekly as we honor those who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe, one story at a time. Presented by Citizens Behind the Badge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for law enforcement professionals across the United States. Join over 126,000 Americans who have already signed our Declaration of Support for law enforcement at behindbadge.org.

Episodes

  1. MAY 7

    "We Ride For Those Who Died" | The Police Unity Tour's Remarkable Journey

    The Police Unity Tour began with just 18 riders in 1997. Today, it's grown to over 2,000 officers biking 300 miles to honor fallen law enforcement heroes, raising more than $40 million for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. In this powerful episode, founder and retired Police Chief Pat Montuore shares the inspiring story behind this remarkable movement. From its humble beginnings to becoming an international phenomenon, the Police Unity Tour represents the true spirit of the law enforcement brotherhood. Episode Highlights:[00:02:40] How the Police Unity Tour began in 1997[00:15:30] The emotional connection riders make with survivors[00:24:17] The bracelet tradition honoring fallen officers[00:27:27] How the tour expanded internationally[00:32:27] Pat's life-changing heart attack during the Israel tour[00:36:55] Communities lining the route in support Pat reveals how each rider carries a bracelet bearing a fallen officer's name, connecting with their families and ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten. He also shares his own near-death experience during the Israel Police Unity Tour and how it transformed his perspective on life and service. Along the journey, communities line the route with American flags and signs of support, demonstrating the deep connection between law enforcement and the citizens they serve. As Pat explains, "We're not against anything. All we're for is making sure we remember our fallen, and we let our citizens know that we serve them with honor." Quote from Episode:"It's not just about riding that bicycle. It's about educating not only the communities and states we go through, but educating everybody on that bicycle about their own agency who suffered and sacrificed themselves for them and their community." Learn more at PoliceUnityTour.com and find ways to support law enforcement at CitizensBehindTheBadge.org. Heroes Behind the Badge is proudly presented by Citizens Behind the Badge, the leading voice of the American people in support of law enforcement.

    52 min

  2. APR 24

    Beyond the Presidential Protection Detail - Tim McCarthy's Law Enforcement Journey - Part 2

    Law enforcement careers demand sacrifice that extends far beyond a single moment of heroism. In this compelling conclusion to our interview with Tim McCarthy, the Secret Service agent who took a bullet for President Reagan, we explore his remarkable 50-year career spanning federal protection and local policing. After recovering from his near-fatal shooting, McCarthy served 22 years with the Secret Service before becoming police chief in Orland, Illinois for 26 years. His unique perspective bridges two worlds of law enforcement and offers critical insights into the challenges facing officers today. From inadequate resources in federal protection to the devastating impact of the "defund and defame" movement on recruitment, McCarthy speaks with the authority of someone who's led from the front lines. Key Moments:3:34 - McCarthy discusses Secret Service staffing challenges and agent burnout9:45 - His powerful insights on PTSD in law enforcement and Clint Hill's struggles12:54 - How the defunding movement collapsed police recruitment from 400 to just 50 applicants15:20 - His creation of a 30-jurisdiction task force with a 70% homicide clearance rate18:28 - "If you like helping people, it's the greatest job in the world. I did 50 years of it, and I wouldn't mind doing 50 more." Support the men and women who protect our communities every day. Visit citizensbehindbadge.org to join our mission of restoring respect and resources to law enforcement professionals nationwide. #HeroesBehindTheBadge #SecretService #PolicingChallenges #LawEnforcementLeadership #BackTheBlue

    22 min

  3. APR 22

    Secret Service Agent Tim McCarthy - The Man Who Took a Bullet for President Reagan

    When bullets rang out at the Washington Hilton on March 30, 1981, Secret Service Agent Tim McCarthy made the split-second decision that defines the ultimate sacrifice in law enforcement – turning his body into a shield for President Reagan during an assassination attempt. In this powerful Heroes Behind the Badge interview, McCarthy recounts his 50-year law enforcement career, including the moment he took a bullet to protect President Reagan from would-be assassin John Hinckley Jr. Despite suffering a serious chest wound, McCarthy returned to presidential protection duties just three months later, demonstrating the remarkable resilience that defines America's finest. "I did what I did based upon training, not anything else," McCarthy humbly explains. His story exemplifies the courage and commitment of law enforcement professionals nationwide who stand ready to make the ultimate sacrifice. KEY MOMENTS:2:15 - The coin flip that put McCarthy on duty during the assassination attempt9:42 - McCarthy's detailed account of the shooting and his protective response14:25 - President Reagan's hospital room meeting with McCarthy: "What did this guy have against the Irish?"21:58 - How security protocols changed after the assassination attempt27:36 - McCarthy's expert analysis of recent Trump assassination attempts Support the men and women who protect us every day. Visit citizensbehindbadge.org to learn more about our mission to counter misinformation and support law enforcement. #HeroesBehindTheBadge #SecretService #LawEnforcementHeroes #PresidentialProtection #BackTheBlue

    38 min

  4. APR 10

    The Healing Power of Police Week: A Family's Journey After Line-of-Duty Death

    The Harold Vitale Legacy (Part 2)In this moving conclusion to the Harold Vitale story, the Heroes Behind the Badge team explores how one family transformed unimaginable grief into an extraordinary legacy of service and remembrance that has spanned nearly four decades. Les Vitale shares the profound impact of the family's first visit to National Police Week in Washington DC—how the overwhelming support they received from the law enforcement community became the catalyst for their own mission to give back. From this life-changing experience emerged the Harold Vitale Memorial Fund, which has raised over $1 million to support fallen officer families, provide scholarships, and ensure that Harold's sacrifice—and the sacrifices of other officers—are never forgotten. Hosts Dennis Collins, Craig Floyd, and Bill Erfurth guide listeners through the inspiring story of how the annual Vitale Memorial Golf Tournament has grown over 30 years, how the impressive Art Victorious statue was created in Harold's honor, and how the family continues to support newly bereaved police families by commissioning portraits of their fallen loved ones. This episode is a powerful testament to the healing that comes through purpose and a beautiful illustration of what "Vitale Pride" truly means—standing up for others and honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.

    31 min

  5. APR 8

    "I'm Going to Kill That Cop": A Police Officer's Final Traffic Stop

    Heroes Behind the Badge: The Harold Vitale Story (Part 1)In this powerful first installment, the Heroes Behind the Badge team speaks with Les Vitale about his brother Harold, a decorated police officer whose life was tragically cut short during a routine traffic stop in 1985. Les shares the meaning behind "Vitale Pride" - the family code of honor that Harold lived by - and recounts in vivid detail the events of that fateful night when a 19-year-old suspect with an outstanding warrant made the deadly decision to flee with Officer Vitale's arm trapped in the car window. This episode provides a rare and intimate glimpse into what happens to a law enforcement family in the aftermath of tragedy, including their frustrating journey through a justice system that ultimately failed them when Harold's killer received only a manslaughter conviction despite clear evidence of premeditation. Join hosts Dennis Collins, Craig Floyd, and Bill Erfurth for this heart-wrenching but essential reminder of the risks officers face every day and the true cost of the oath they take to protect and serve. Part 1 focuses on Harold's life, service, and the tragic circumstances of his death, setting the stage for the inspiring story of legacy and healing that follows in Part 2.

    32 min

  6. MAR 25

    Wildlife Officer vs. Cop Killers: The Heroic Showdown That Saved Lives Behind the Badge

    When evil hunts, heroes respond. Wildlife Officer Mike Neal's split-second decision to ram his truck into cop-killers from the Sovereign Citizen Movement saved lives and ended a deadly rampage in West Memphis, Arkansas. On May 20, 2010, after two officers were brutally murdered during a traffic stop, Neal joined the manhunt and confronted the killers in a Walmart parking lot. Despite being outgunned and facing an AK-47, Neal charged his truck at 55mph into their van, engaging in a point-blank gunfight that left his vehicle riddled with bullets. His heroic actions saved two critically wounded officers and earned him the Presidential Medal of Valor. "It's not a matter of if it's going to happen to you, it's when it's going to happen to you. If you're not thinking that way, you might want to start." - Sheriff Mike Neal 0:45 - How the deadly sovereign citizen encounter began14:45 - The moment Neal rammed his truck into the killers' van20:10 - Neal discusses the warrior mindset needed in law enforcement35:30 - Receiving the Medal of Valor from President Obama42:15 - Neal's truck being displayed at the National Law Enforcement Museum Join hundreds of thousands of Americans supporting law enforcement at citizensbehindbadge.org. Together, we can ensure officers like Mike Neal have the support they need to keep our communities safe. Follow Citizens Behind the Badge social media accounts to see more stories of heroic officers like Mike Neal #LawEnforcementHeroes #BehindTheBadge #PoliceHeroes #MedalOfValor #WildlifeOfficer #CourageUnderFire

    53 min

  7. MAR 11

    The Hidden Crisis: How This Former Officer Nearly Became Another Police Suicide Statistic

    We confront the hidden epidemic of police suicide with retired officer David Berez. After 34 years in emergency services with the East Windsor Police Department, David courageously shares how he nearly became another statistic—sitting in his patrol car with his service weapon, prevented from taking his life only by one timely call Police officers are 54% more likely than civilians to die by suicide, and David reveals the neurological impact of experiencing hundreds of traumatic incidents throughout a law enforcement career. "I lost the ability to feel love," he explains, describing how the job transformed him. "I didn't know how to hug my kids and mean it." Now a Master Resiliency Trainer with a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Applied Positive Psychology, David offers evidence-based strategies for building officer resilience using the PERMA model (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment). This essential conversation addresses the alarming reality that the average police officer beyond age 50 will live only 7.5 years compared to the civilian average of 30-35 years. David's journey from crisis to becoming an advocate for officer wellness provides crucial insights for departments, officers, and families navigating the psychological toll of law enforcement service. Join hosts Craig Floyd, Bill Erfurth, and Dennis Collins as they explore this critical issue affecting the brave men and women who protect our communities every day. #PoliceSuicidePrevention #OfficerWellness #BehindTheBadge #LawEnforcementResilience

    1h 3m

  8. FEB 25

    Shot 5 Times: A Police Officer's Survival Story

    In this powerful episode of Heroes Behind the Badge, we share the extraordinary story of Jimmy Kuzak, a former police officer whose life changed forever when he was shot five times during a routine call. Despite being paralyzed from the waist down, Jimmy's incredible journey from trauma to triumph as a competitive shooter and advocate for law enforcement will inspire and move you. Key Takeaways:Courage under fire can manifest in unexpected ways - from surviving multiple gunshot wounds to rebuilding a life with new purposeSupport systems, including family, partners, and service animals, play a crucial role in recovery and adaptationPhysical limitations don't define capability - as demonstrated by Jimmy's success as a competitive shooterThe law enforcement community faces unique challenges that require continued public support and understanding Episode Timeline:00:00:00 - Introduction and Background 00:03:06 - The Night of April 4, 2011 00:27:40 - Recovery Journey 00:42:15 - Competitive Shooting Career 00:54:36 - Life with Chris and Service Dogs Guest Bio:Jimmy Kuzak served with distinction in Washington County, PA as a narcotics detective for nine years before joining the Clariton Police Department. As a certified defensive tactics instructor, he brought valuable expertise to his fellow officers. Currently, he serves as a Glock brand ambassador, Team Glock adaptive shooter, and certified firearms instructor. Jimmy is also a member of the Citizens Behind the Badge Law Enforcement Advisory Board. Resources Mentioned:Citizens Behind the Badge - https://behindbadge.orgNational Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund - https://nleomf.org"Heroes Behind the Badge: Sacrifice and Survival" Documentary

    1h 2m

  9. FEB 11

    Heroes Behind the Badge: Capitol Police Chief Steve Sund's Story - Part III

    🎧 THE JANUARY 6TH REVELATIONS: FINAL CHAPTER"I had gone from 25 years as a decorated and widely respected leader... and in one day I suddenly became publicly humiliated." In this explosive conclusion to our groundbreaking three-part series, former U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund delivers his most personal interview yet. For the first time since his Congressional exoneration, Chief Sund reveals the devastating aftermath of January 6th that the media never covered. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:REVEALED: The untold story of Officer Brian Sicknick's final hoursEXPOSED: How politicians demanded "blanket fire" orders on protestersEXCLUSIVE: Inside the command center confrontation with Maxine WatersBREAKING: The true toll on officers' mental healthPERSONAL: Why Chief Sund's children now refuse to enter law enforcement 💡 INSIDE THIS EPISODE:"On the west front of the Capitol at one point they counted 30,000 people... We had initially 273 officers assigned to the perimeter." Chief Sund provides shocking details about: The real story behind five officer deathsHow the "optics" excuse cost livesWhy the National Guard was really held backThe truth about intelligence failuresHis December Congressional exoneration 🔍 ABOUT CHIEF SUND:Before that fateful day, Steven Sund commanded DC Metropolitan Police's elite Special Operations Division, coordinating security for presidential inaugurations and major events across Washington DC. In 2019, he became Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police, bringing 25 years of decorated service to protect Congress. ⏱️ EPISODE TIMELINE:00:00 - Series finale introduction 04:12 - The loss of Officer Sicknick 07:14 - The mental health crisis 11:05 - Political exploitation revealed 13:22 - The Waters confrontation 15:30 - Impact on Sund's family 19:41 - The path to exoneration 📚 ESSENTIAL LISTENING:Start with Part 1 (Intelligence Failures) and Part 2 (Minute-by-Minute Account) to get the complete story of January 6th that the mainstream media missed. 🎯 WHO SHOULD LISTEN:Law enforcement professionalsSecurity and intelligence specialistsPublic policy expertsCitizens concerned about police supportAnyone seeking the truth about January 6th 🔊 EXCLUSIVE SERIES:Part 1: The Intelligence Failures - How politics compromised security Part 2: Minute-by-Minute Account - The untold story of resistance Part 3: The Aftermath (Current Episode) - Truth and vindication 📖 DEEPER DIVE:Read Chief Sund's complete account in "Courage Under Fire: The Definitive Account from Inside the Capitol on January 6th" 🤝 SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT:Join over 126,000 Americans who've signed the Declaration of Support at behindbadge.org Heroes Behind the Badge brings you the real stories of America's law enforcement professionals, exposing fake news about police and delivering the real truth about the men and women who protect our communities. CONNECT WITH US:Website: behindbadge.org Twitter: @citizensbtb Facebook: @citizensbehindthebadge Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you listen CATEGORIES:Law Enforcement, Current Events, Government, Public Safety, True Crime, American History, Politics, National Security © 2025 Citizens Behind the Badge. All rights reserved.

    18 min

  10. FEB 4

    Heroes Behind the Badge: Capitol Police Chief Steve Sund's Story - Part II

    Former U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund provides an unprecedented insider account of January 6th's security response. In this riveting episode, Chief Sund reveals the critical decisions, bureaucratic hurdles, and shocking details of how his officers defended Congress against overwhelming odds. Key Takeaways:273 Capitol Police officers faced an estimated 30,000 protestersThe National Guard's response was delayed by 71 minutes due to "optics" concernsDespite being vastly outnumbered, officers maintained remarkable restraint with only one shot firedThe Capitol was cleared within 5 hours, defying predictions of a 24-hour siege Timestamps:00:00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:03:44 - First Signs of Trouble 00:05:15 - Pipe Bomb Discovery 00:09:50 - National Guard Response Issues 00:14:51 - Single Shot Fired 00:20:31 - How Close Were They? 00:25:01 - Political Aftermath Resources:• "Courage Under Fire" by Steven Sund: https://www.amazon.com/Courage-under-Fire-Outnumbered-January-ebook/dp/B0BGJRCHM2 • Citizens Behind the Badge website: https://behindbadge.org Guest Bio:Steven Sund served as Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police during January 6th, 2021. With 25 years of decorated service in the Metropolitan D.C. Police and expertise in critical incident management, Sund led the Capitol Police response during one of America's most challenging moments. Connect with Us:Dennis Collins - Citizens Behind the Badge Board Member Bill Erfurth - Former Miami-Dade Police Lieutenant Craig Floyd - Founder, Citizens Behind the Badge Related Episodes:• Episode 1: The Lead-Up to January 6th

    35 min

  11. JAN 28

    Heroes Behind The Badge: Capitol Police Chief Steve Sund Story - Part 1

    In part 1 of this gripping series of Heroes Behind the Badge, former U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund shares his firsthand account of the January 6th Capitol riot and the intelligence failures that preceded it. Chief Sund, author of "Courage Under Fire," provides an unprecedented look into the political pressures, institutional barriers, and operational challenges that shaped one of the most significant security events in American history. Key Takeaways:The Capitol Police Board's political oversight significantly hampered security preparations, including denying National Guard support requestsIntelligence failures within the U.S. Capitol Police led to inadequate preparation for January 6th despite available warning signsBudget constraints and the "defund the police" movement impacted essential equipment and training resources for Capitol Police officersRecent changes to federal law have modified how the Capitol Police Chief can request emergency assistance Timestamps:00:03:51 - Craig Floyd discusses officer fatalities 00:14:41 - Steven Sund interview begins 00:30:05 - Intelligence failures revealed 00:42:00 - Budget and resource challenges Resources:Courage Under Fire" by Steven Sund: https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Under-Fire-Definitive-Account/dp/B0D9Z2FV3TCitizens Behind the Badge website: www.citizensbehindthebadge.orgNational Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund: www.nleomf.org Guest Bio:Steven Sund served as Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police from 2019-2021, following a 25-year career with the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC. His expertise in critical incident management and special events security led him to coordinate security for numerous presidential inaugurations and high-profile events. Sund holds master's degrees from the Naval Postgraduate School and Johns Hopkins University. Connect with Our Guest:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-a-sund-6271b5212 X: https://x.com/ChiefSund

    49 min

  12. JAN 17

    Courage Under Fire: The Untold Story of January 6th Series Preview

    In this special preview episode of Heroes Behind the Badge, we introduce a groundbreaking three-part series featuring former U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund's first interview since his congressional exoneration. Chief Sund reveals shocking details about the events of January 6th, 2021, including: The overwhelming odds his officers faced - 30,000 protesters against just 273 officersCritical decisions made during 71 minutes of desperate calls for backupPreviously unreported details about the military's delayed responseThe impact of political interference on law enforcement operationsThe true story of how 1,700 officers from 17 agencies came together to defend democracy Chief Sund shares how his officers maintained remarkable restraint despite facing brutal violence, and offers a compelling glimpse into the leadership challenges of one of the most scrutinized days in American law enforcement history. This episode also introduces Heroes Behind the Badge, a new podcast dedicated to sharing the real stories of America's law enforcement professionals. Hosted by Craig Floyd, whose 34-year career supporting law enforcement brings unmatched credibility to these crucial conversations, each episode will bring you behind the scenes with the brave men and women who protect our communities. Join us next week for Part 1 of our exclusive interview with Chief Sund, where we'll dive deep into the days leading up to January 6th and the critical decisions that shaped law enforcement's response. Subscribe now to Heroes Behind the Badge on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

    7 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

From the front lines to the final call, Heroes Behind the Badge brings you the untold stories of America's law enforcement community. Led by Craig Floyd, who spent 34 years working alongside police officers across the nation, alongside veteran facilitator Dennis Collins and law enforcement expert Bill Erfurth, this podcast cuts through misconceptions to reveal the true nature of modern policing. Our dynamic trio brings unique perspectives to each episode: Craig shares deep insights from his decades of experience and relationships within law enforcement, Dennis guides conversations with meticulous research and natural flow, and Bill adds engaging commentary that makes complex law enforcement topics accessible to all listeners. Each episode features in-depth conversations with law enforcement professionals, sharing their firsthand experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Drawing from extensive research and real-world experience, we explore the realities faced by the over 800,000 officers who serve and protect our communities every day. From dramatic accounts of crisis response to quiet moments of everyday heroism, our show illuminates the human stories behind the badge. We dive deep into the statistics, policies, and practices that shape modern law enforcement, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of what it truly means to serve in law enforcement today. Whether you're a law enforcement professional, a concerned citizen, or someone seeking to understand the complexities of modern policing, Heroes Behind the Badge provides the context, insights, and authentic perspectives you won't find anywhere else. Join us weekly as we honor those who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe, one story at a time. Presented by Citizens Behind the Badge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for law enforcement professionals across the United States. Join over 126,000 Americans who have already signed our Declaration of Support for law enforcement at behindbadge.org.

Information

  • Creator
    Citizens Behind the Badge
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Citizens Behind the Badge
  • Show Website
    Heroes Behind the Badge

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