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


Author: Citizens Behind the Badge April 10, 2025 Duration: 30:31
Podcast episode
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.


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