WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Local Businessmen Offer State Troopers Free Life Insurance

"It's amazing what one or two individuals can do when they make up their minds that they want to help someone, and they do it with no other ulterior motives. They just basically get a group of business people together, and I told them 'you're helping people you probably never meet,'" said Alabama Governor Bob Riley.

After September 11th, business owners in Montgomery wanted to do something charitable for local law enforcement agencies. That's when they got the idea of insurance policies.

"Today we've raised that to $10,000 life and $50,000 accidental death for every police officer, fireman, sheriff that's full-time in montgomery, and all of the on-the-road full time State Troopers in Alabama," said Grant Sullivan, a partner of Sullivan and Wills Real Estate Agency.

The program is called the Public Safety Insurance Fund. It started with 38 Montgomery area businesses donating $1,000 per year. The Troopers' policies went into effect last month, and they say it's a welcome gift.

"It kind of takes some of the burden off of the thoughts of the Troopers where if something unfortunate did happen, at least their families would be taken care of. It's really a big morale booster for our folks," said Colonel Mike Coppage, Director of the Department of Public Safety.

Officials say it's just a small way of saying thanks for the jobs they do each day to keep us safe.

"It is important that all who serve, all who wear a badge, all who step into harm's way and their families, all of whom are heroes, know that we appreciate what they do," said Alabama Attorney General Troy King.

If you would like information on how to start an officer insurance fund in your area, Sullivan will offer advice.  His number is (334) 396-3333.

--Written by: Brock Parker