“On behalf of the Mayor, Council and staff of the City of Hardeeville I would like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to you and all of the members of the Two Hundred Club for your outpouring of love and generosity to the family of Cpl. Mark Jones. The men and woman that wear the uniform of the police and fire departments throughout the nation put their lives on the line to protect and serve the communities they work in. They do what many cannot. They give what most would not. They ask for nothing when we would ask for everything. They deserve more than any of us could ever give in return. The Two Hundred Club stands as a beacon of hope and support in dark times for the public safety community. Your club has stepped up to the plate and made a commitment to the men and women that protect us with their very lives each day. I know first hand what your club is doing for Deanna and Mark’s children. I know you give not to be recognized or applauded. You give because you care and that means more than you will ever know. As I stood numb by the graveside service, listening to the echo of the twenty-one gun salute, fixated on the final notes of Amazing Grace played by the bagpipes, I wondered quietly who would be there for Mark’s family when time had passed but the pain had not? It was then that I was reassured that God would be there. He has made His provision real to Mark’s family and to his friends here at the City by the show of love and support by your club. For that we are eternally grateful. I pray that the Lord will bless the efforts of your club and the families that you support on His behalf. Thank you and God bless you all.”
