Local Officer Helps Communities Rebuild And Brings Mental Health To Light

Whether it’s serving as a military officer or stepping up as a first responder, it takes a rare combination of dedication, resilience and heart to take on these roles. And for many of these individuals, that same drive carries over into life beyond the badge.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to spotlight active-duty military members, veterans and first responders who continue to lead, inspire and give back in meaningful ways across their communities.

Officer Andres Perilla of the Tampa International Airport Police Department is known for his devotion to helping others, whether he’s on duty or hundreds of miles from home. According to Tampa International Airport, Perilla didn’t hesitate to step up after Hurricane Ian devastated parts of Florida’s west coast in 2022. He was one of the Airport police officers who volunteered to travel south and spend a week assisting local law enforcement and pitching in with cleanup efforts in the hardest-hit areas.

Originally from Cali, Colombia, Perilla has always valued connecting with people from all walks of life — a perspective shaped by his early years moving city to city and later working humble jobs after coming to the United States. Today, he brings that same sense of service and empathy to his role at the Airport, where he’s known for sharing words of encouragement with coworkers and passengers alike and advocating for mental health awareness among fellow officers.

Outside of work, Perilla pushes his limits as an ultra-marathon runner, tackling some of the world’s toughest races and embracing the community spirit they bring forth. For him, it all comes back to lending a hand and supporting others, whether it’s fellow runners in the desert or neighbors rebuilding after a storm.

Want to know more? Read Officer Andres Perilla’s full spotlight shared by the Tampa International Airport.

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