During SHOT Show 2016, the Safariland Group SAVES Club honored two American police officers who were saved in the line of fire by armor from The Safariland Group family of brands. Both officers shared their stories and their gratitude for the armor that saved their lives. They were also invited to choose new body armor from Safariland being showcased at the company's booth.

SAVE #1890 Deputy Dustin Alexander, Douglas County (MN) Sheriff's Office

Deputy Dustin Alexander of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office in Minnesota responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle. After locating the vehicle in a rural area and approaching its occupants, the driver shot Deputy Alexander in the chest with a 9mm handgun from less than three feet away. He returned fire and the suspects fled on foot after their vehicle became stuck in the snow. A search was conducted and both suspects were located, deceased, in what was ruled a murder-suicide.

At the hospital, Deputy Alexander was released that same evening as the shot fired at his chest was stopped by his Protech Tactical IMPAC HT plate and Second Chance Summit SM01.1 Level II armor.

Officer Kevin Parker Jr. (right) was saved by a Safariland vest that his father (left) had fitted him for a few months earlier. (Photo: Melanie Basich)

SAVE #1928 Officer Kevin Parker Jr., Corinth (MS) Police Department

Officer Kevin Parker Jr. had only been with the Corinth (MS) Police Department for eight months. He was on patrol investigating a prowler call when he observed a suspicious individual. The suspect ran in front of his patrol car and, when Officer Parker ordered the suspect to stop, the suspect charged him. The suspect was able to shoot Officer Parker twice; once in the shoulder and once in the chest. Though shot twice, the officer regained full control of his service weapon and the suspect fled the scene.

Officer Parker was rushed to the emergency room where he was treated for the gunshot wound to his shoulder. It was discovered that the 9mm shot to his chest had been stopped by his ABA XT02 Level IIIA armor. Parker still has a scar from the major impact of the round, but he was back on duty two months later. His father, a veteran law enforcement officer, works at a local distributor and had fitted him for the vest he wore that day.

About the Safariland Saves Club

The 1,932 members of the SAVES Club are officers who experienced a life-threating event in which their armor or gear from The Safariland Group contributed to saving their lives. These heroes go on to become advocates within the law enforcement and military community, including the importance of body armor and safety lessons derived from personal experience. Ultimately, the SAVES Club strives to personify The Safariland Group mission that "Together, We Save Lives."