OKEECHOBEE — Law enforcement officers, friends, family, and community members gather on the steps of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office early on Friday morning, Oct. 9 to share in the annual "Blessing of the Badge". The ceremony was opened by Okeechobee City Police Chief Donald Hagan. Pastors Joe Bishop, Carey McKee, Emmaline Harris, and Matt Bowen called upon God to protect the first responders of the Okeechobee community as they in turn protected their community. Following the prayers, Chief Deputy Major Michael Hazellief thanked everyone for attending and asked for continued prayers for the officers. Sheriff Noel E. Stephen also thanked the attendees, particularly his wife  Vanessa and OCSO Chaplain Joe Bishop.