Blackhawks Support Drive To Buy Bullet-Proof Vests For Officers
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Blackhawks and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation are using some "star power" as they ask the public to help buy bullet-proof vests for police officers.
Their pitch has two stars: Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford and Officer Alejandro Lagunas, one of three officers wounded in an incident March 14.
Crawford says his protective gear stops shots on goal. Lagunas says has vest stopped a bullet and saved his life.
Crawford finishes the plea, saying that the department issues new officers a vest, but after that it's up to them to buy the replacement body armor, which can cost $500 or more.
Memorial Foundation President, and former Chicago Police Supt., Phil Cline says the vests degrade from use after about five years, and can only stop bullets once.
The Foundation has outfitted 6,100 officers with new vests, including Officer Lagunas. Its goal is to provide $8,000.
Donations can be made at www.getbehindthevest.org.