NHS, EWMS School Resource Officer Worked Security For Sarah Palin Visit

October 9, 2008

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When vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin visited Pensacola Tuesday, one local sheriff’s deputy was there helping to provide security.

Deputy James Moretz, school resource officer at Northview High School and Ernest Ward Middle School, was part of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Department security detail at the Pensacola Civic Center for the Republican candidate’s visit.

“I have never seen the civic center that packed,” Moretz said. It was raining and the lines were long when he arrived early for his security post. A few people were upset that they could not take their umbrellas inside the building, he said, but otherwise it was a quiet wait for the Alaska governor to arrive.

But when the lights went out just before she took the stage, things changed.

“It was an excited crowd,” Moretz said. “She came came out and the crowd just went wild.”

Tuesday was not the first time Moretz has worked security for a high profile political figure. During President George Bush’s last visit to Pensacola, he was there too.

“Unlike Bush, she (Palin) stayed behind to sign autographs,” he said. “She even took the time to take photos with the special needs children from Escambia Westgate School.”

Moretz said he was impressed by Palin and her speech.

“She was very articulate,” he said. “She brings a lot of energy to the Republican ticket.”

He was equally impressed by the capacity crowd at the Pensacola Civic Center and their behavior.

“I was surprised that there were no hecklers,” Moretz said. “The Secret Service had told us if there were any hecklers or protesters to leave them alone. They said event staff would deal with them if there was a problem.”

Pictured above: Deputy James Moretz, school resource officer at Northview High School and Ernest Ward Middle School, worked security Tuesday for Sarah Palin’s visit to Pensacola. NorthEscambia.com photo.

Comments

3 Responses to “NHS, EWMS School Resource Officer Worked Security For Sarah Palin Visit”

  1. Bobby on October 14th, 2008 10:07 am

    Yes its good to see Mr. Moretz there. Yes, I believe Mrs. Palin will be a good Vice-President, just like Mrs. Brown-Curry will be a good Superintendent. This is the time for change.

  2. Gadget on October 10th, 2008 9:36 am

    Officer Moretz,

    It is good to see that theysend the best to provide security for Gov Palin.

  3. EWMS Cheerleader on October 9th, 2008 7:09 am

    WOOT WOOT
    GO MR.MORETZ!!!!!!

    I saw you there but I was on the floor and you were like above the stands.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News