NEWFOUNDLAND -- Dressed in Halloween costumes, third graders at Wallenpaupack Area South Elementary sang a special concert Monday night, while their friends, family, and members of the Pennsylvania State Police looked on.
"It's our duty to protect and serve. That's out motto in the Pennsylvania State Police, so we're more than willing, in fact that's who we are. That's what we want to do, but knowing that the community is supporting us and people are with us means a great deal," said Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Frank Noonan.
The concert was part of a special night dedicated to members of law enforcement, specifically the Pennsylvania State Police, who continue to search for Eric Frein in the woods of the Poconos.
For more than six weeks, they have been searching for the man who they say shot and killed Corporal Bryon Dickson and injured Trooper Alex Douglass.
"We've been close to the search area. It's kind of gone right through our school district into the southern end down here and obviously, our kids had some concern for their safety, but also many of them have family members who are in law enforcement and they wanted to do something to give back," said Wallenpaupack South Elementary Principal Mark Kirsten.
"I think they're exhausted. I think they're at their wits end. I think the weather change is going to help them. You have all the naysayers saying they should just end the search. Well they have got him on the move," said Officer Matthew McCormack, a school resource officer, of the Eastern Pike Regional Police.
One of the organizers of the event, Jennifer Mercereau, lost her uncle, a state trooper, in the line of duty years ago.
It still brings tears to her eyes.
She said the community's message to their protectors is so important.
"I think they're doing an absolutely wonderful job given what they are. I know there has been fugitives on the run for many years that have eluded police and I do believe the change in weather will play a huge factor in them getting him and getting their guy."
"This has been a very trying time for the Pennsylvania State Police as well as myself and the community support has really been a boost," said Commissioner Noonan.