POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Deputies in Polk County have a new way to show their patriotism this year. To mark the United States’ upcoming 250th birthday on July 4, Sheriff Grady Judd has introduced a special commemorative badge that blends agency history with national pride.
The new design is a distinct departure from the standard uniform, mixing eras to tell a visual story. The base of the badge is a copper shield, reminiscent of the style law enforcement officers wore in the past. Resting in the center of that historic copper background is the silver star deputies wear today.
“We’ve gotten a lot of interest in that,” Judd said while revealing the design. “The original badge that sheriffs and deputies wore back in the day is the old copper badge, and the star on the inside is the current star that we wear today.”
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The badge also features dual flags—the original American flag and the modern 50-star version—to signify the nation’s semiquincentennial.
The concept was developed by a special project team within the Sheriff’s Office described by Judd as “creative geniuses.” The new hardware is not mandatory; deputies have the option to purchase and wear the commemorative shield throughout the anniversary year if they choose.
“We think it’s awesome,” Judd said. “Happy birthday, United States of America. The best country in the entire world.”
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