Part of school's Circle of Honor named for ex-Dallas PD Chief David Kunkle
DALLAS - Former Dallas Police Chief David Kunkle was honored Friday with part of a memorial for veterans and first responders named after him.
Kunkle, who's been diagnosed with a debilitating disease, was on hand as Faith Family Academy Charter School broke ground on its Circle of Honor.
Kunkle, with wife Sarah Dodd at his side, led the parade of guests at the event honoring veterans and first responders.
"They are those who have borne the burden of battle so others like you and I may live peacefully and always be protected within our communities," said Commander Reggis Williams, VFW Post 1406.
Faith Family is the only charter school in the country with a Naval Junior ROTC program and it has won national awards in its first year of eligibility.
"We will commemorate those graduates who enlist in the military or become a first responder as an example to future students," Charles Purcell, Faith Family Education Foundation.
This year, three students enlisted in various branches of the military after graduation.
Friday was the groundbreaking of the tribute that will go in a space called the Circle of Honor.
"We're honored to dedicate one wall to recognize the first responders in our community. This wall will be dedicated as the Chief David Kunkle First Responder Wall," said Rick Mozley, Faith Family Education Foundation.
Kunkle said he felt honored.
"I came here for the ceremony and I’ve never been more impressed by a group of young men and women," Kunkle said.
The former chief has been involved with the charter school for some time.
"These kids are far more mature than I was at that age," he said.
Kunkle was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a type of Alzheimers, in 2019. The impact to both his mind and body is a daily challenge for both him and his wife.
"My life has been really good, I've got the most wonderful wife and I have no complaints about, you know, my medical issues. They're disturbing to me because I was always so healthy and ran and lifted weights and stuff. I never suspected that I'd be the one to come down with this disease," Kunkle said, adding that he felt good on Friday.
Kunkle, when asked for some words of wisdom, kept it simple.
"Enjoy life and contribute to the community," Kunkle said.