STURGIS, S.D. (Mitchell Now) — Meade County Sheriff Pat West took a break from the busy Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on Sunday evening to host the annual Law Enforcement Appreciation BBQ at Sturgis City Park.
The event honors the dedicated service of the law enforcement officers, first responders and emergency personnel who work throughout the rally to help keep the hundreds of thousands of visitors safe each year.
The barbecue also serves as a fundraiser for Meade County Cares, a program of the Fraternal Order of Police Northern Hills Lodge 12. The organization supports underprivileged children and provides assistance to Meade County Sheriff’s Office deputies and staff facing crises throughout the year.
This year’s live auction featured several firearms and a one-of-a-kind set of custom-made sheriff’s spurs.
Sheriff West shared the history of the annual barbecue and how it has grown into a tradition of recognizing those who serve during one of South Dakota’s largest events.
Among those attending this year’s event were South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds and South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley, a Sturgis native.