Tyler Martin had an emotional week.
On Monday, Houston Police Officer Richard Martin — Tyler’s dad — died in the line of duty, and the 11-year-old Houston boy decided go ahead and play in his Little League game on Wednesday in order to honor his late father.
Tyler took the hill for the Hawks, and nearly the entire Houston Police Department came out to show their support for No. 3 and his father. When asked what prompted so many people to come out and support Tyler, an officer responded, “he’s one of us… He needs to know he’ll have these people here whenever he needs them.”
Screenshot: KHOU 11
Officer Matthew Slade graduated with Martin from the police academy and said the fallen hero was, “a good man, a good officer and a good friend.
Screenshot: KHOU 11
Other officers simply wanted to make sure Tyler knew, “his Dad didn’t die in vain.”
Screenshot: KHOU 11
Following the game, officers, friends, family and Hawks players had a moment of silence for Officer Martin and signed a ball for Tyler, so that he’ll always be able to remember that night.
Screenshot: KHOU 11
Screenshot: KHOU 11
[h/t: IJ Review]