Jacob Lucas and Christopher Corrigan stand proudly with Officer Enderli and Police Chief Dan Davis after being recognized for their incredible act of generosity and leadership.
In a time when school safety weighs heavily on communities across the country, two students at Pontiac Township High School decided to take action quietly, thoughtfully, and with incredible heart.
Just days before a tragic school shooting in St. Louis, and another school shooting near a high school in Gwinnett County, Georgia, PTHS students Jacob Lucas and Christopher Corrigan made a powerful gesture of protection and gratitude for their school resource officer, Brian Enderli. The two teens organized a fundraiser to purchase advanced protective gear, a ballistic vest, an RTS Tactical Mini Shield, and mounted light, to ensure Officer Enderli had the best chance of staying safe in the event of an active shooter situation.
What started as an idea in the spring quickly turned into a mission once the school year began. “It came to my attention that he was issued level IIIA equipment, and from my prior knowledge, I knew that wouldn't stop rifle rounds,” said Jacob. “At that time, I didn’t have the time or resources to make it happen. But I kept thinking about it, and once I got Chris on board, we went to local businesses and raised the money.”
Their determination paid off quickly. Not only did they raise enough funds in a single day, but they also kept the entire project a surprise from Officer Enderli until the moment of the reveal at a District 90 school board meeting.
Pontiac Police Chief Dan Davis was struck by the students’ commitment and technical knowledge. “They were well-versed in rifle rounds, armor ratings, and what’s required to stop high-velocity threats. They even made sure the gear met departmental standards for looks and function,” Davis shared. “They came to us at the beginning of the year and said they wanted to do a project. One day later, they had the money raised.”
The newly donated ballistic shield - rugged, compact, and mission-ready - will give Officer Enderli extra protection in high-risk situations.
Officer Enderli, still emotional about the moment, recalled how he had no idea what was coming. “Last Thursday after school, Mr. Bohm asked me what I was doing Monday night… and I just said, ‘I don’t know, why?’” Enderli said with a smile. “It was a total surprise.”
The equipment gifted to Officer Enderli is more than just gear. It’s a symbol of trust, safety, and community, a message from two students that his life matters and that they want him to go home safely every day.
Jacob put it best: “We want to make sure he has the best ability, the best chance, to go home to them [his family] every day.”
This story isn’t just about gear, it’s about leadership, compassion, and the power of students who saw a need and took action to protect someone who protects them every single day.
If you or your department is looking to upgrade protective gear or explore options for active shooter defense (whether it’s shields, vests, or complete kits) RTS Tactical is here to help!
Our team proudly works with departments across the country to provide high-performance, rifle-rated protection for those who need it most.
Request a quote from one of our team members today!