In 2015, Savannah Solis was only 10 years old, but she was already making a difference on a national level. At that point, two New York police officers had recently been murdered in the line of duty, so an unassuming Solis chose to write a letter to the NYPD simply to let them know that “they matter.” Since then, she has traveled around the country visiting different precincts and leaving officers teary-eyed.
Upworthy reports that in her letter, Solis wrote, “You are my heroes. I want to say don’t stop, please don’t give up. Many do not care or appreciate the sacrifices you make every day. But I do.” She continued, “Many are standing with me today to let you know that you matter. Officers across Texas, you matter to me. Officers in New York City, you matter to me. Officers all across America, you matter to me. Please keep taking care of us.”
A police officer saved her mom’s life
Reportedly, Solis’ appreciation and gratitude for police officers began when she was just 5 years old and her mother suffered a heart attack. The first person to arrive during her family’s time of need was a police officer, and because of that act of unwavering duty, her mother is still alive. Solis viewed the moment as an act of bravery and kindness, and she never forgot it.
From that point on, Solis’ mother, Debbie, recalled the dedication that experience inspired in her daughter. Debbie said, “We would drive by and see them stopping somebody and in the backseat she would pray, asking God to take care of them.”
After sending letters to multiple police departments, Solis was invited to visit the Austin Police Department, where she quickly charmed officers without even intending to. Debbie said that Solis treated police officers the way other children treat celebrities, asking them for autographs and photographs during her visit.
Austin Police Department Assistant Chief Jessica Robledo remarked, “The words she spoke from her heart touched every single officer. I noticed everyone was trying to blink back tears. That’s what it’s all about. She is an old soul. She knows the right thing to say and I don’t think she even realizes the impact of her words on these officers and this department.”
She plans to become a police officer
Solis later made another stop in Manchester, New Hampshire, where the department decided it would be a great idea to introduce her to its service animals as well. She spent time with K9 officers and police horses, and at the end of her visit, the department even featured her on its official Instagram page.
The caption also gave people a glimpse into what Solis hopes to do in the future. The department wrote: “Along with her visits, Savannah has written a children’s book to inspire other young people to thank Police. She says she plans to become a police officer when she grows up and hopes to work on the K9 Unit.”
The comment section of the post was filled with appreciation for what Solis had achieved at such a young age. Being a police officer can be an incredibly difficult job, and her story serves as a reminder that even one person’s gratitude can have a profound impact on the people who serve their communities.
Published: Jun 26, 2026 02:15 pm