Several months ago, Police Officer Ryan Davis lost his partner while investigating a grocery store robbery.
His partner — K-9 Officer Jethro — tragically gave his life in the line of duty. Jethro was a young German shepherd who had been with the Canton Police Department for quite some time.
In response to this death, Officer Davis and the entire community of Canton, OH, came out to honor Jethro and his service. In fact, 100 other K-9 officers formed a loving procession at Jethro's funeral.
But beyond Jethro's heroism, his death has now begun to inspire his community in an even more important and profound way. Since his tragic loss, the Canton Police Department has begun raising money to provide their K-9 counterparts with much-needed bulletproof vests.
And one little girl's beautiful and generous letter to Officer Davis has not only touched the hearts of Davis and the entire department, but has moved and inspired people around the world to take notice of this very important issue.
Scroll through and watch the video below to see this young girls' incredible words, and how they are helping the Canton Police Department's K-9 officers.
Officer Eric Stanbro told ABCNews, "Officer Davis has received 2,000 letters since Jethro's death, and he was catching up with them over the weekend.
"He came across this girl's letter and donation, and it really touched him."
The young girl's letter to Officer Davis reads:
"Dear Police Department,
I sorry about Jethro. So here is my allowance for the bulletproof vests. God bless you and the dogs.
Sincerely,
Allison
Age 11"
Young Allison's beautiful note has since gone viral, with news organizations around the world sharing its loving message.
Officer Davis wrote on Facebook, "How does something like this not rip your heart out? Unfortunately, it was removed from its envelope so I can't even send this little angel a 'Thank You!'"
Fortunately, through the power of social media, Allison and her mother were located, so that Officer Davis could properly thank her for her generous donation.
Allison's words have brought much attention to the important issue of K-9 protective equipment.
Officers from the Canton Police Department reported that the current members of the K-9 unit are now being measured so that they can receive vests.
And while Officer Davis has a new partner — Tuko — he will never forget Jethro and his incredible sacrifice.
Watch the video below to see how Officer Davis is coping with the loss of Jethro and the addition of his new partner.
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