How a Small Town Equipped Its Police Force with RTS Tactical Gear

June 17, 2025
This gear directly enhances officer safety and readiness in the field, allowing officers to respond quickly to dynamic situations with rifle rated protection and immediate trauma care tools by their side.

When a community rallies behind its police, the impact is powerful, sometimes even life-saving.

That’s exactly what happened in Imperial, Nebraska. Where a small town’s commitment to officer safety turned into a major win for first responders, With support from the community and statewide grant funding, the Imperial Police Department upgraded their protection with RTS Tactical Mini ShieldsCarrier Systems, and IFAKs; Mission-critical tools designed to save lives when seconds count.

Earlier this year, Imperial PD announced the successful acquisition of lifesaving gear—thanks to a combination of grants, community investment, and shared mission. The department received $5,000 from the Jack Lewis Safety Fund, which supports rural police, fire, and EMS departments across Nebraska. To bridge the remaining funding gap, the Imperial Community Foundation Fund awarded an additional $4,000 to help cover the cost of essential new equipment.

With that support, Imperial PD was able to purchase:

This gear directly enhances officer safety and readiness in the field, allowing officers to respond quickly to dynamic situations with rifle rated protection and immediate trauma care tools by their side.

"The Imperial Community Foundation Fund believes that investing in public safety is investing in our community's future. We are proud of our local police and emergency personnel, and we support their efforts to protect our community and keep Imperial a friendly and safe community." — Doug Gaswick, Treasurer, Imperial Community Foundation Fund

The story doesn’t end there. In addition to their recent equipment upgrades, Imperial PD was awarded a $25,000 grant to aid in the fight against human trafficking, demonstrating the department’s commitment to tackling some of the most critical challenges facing communities today.At RTS Tactical, we’re honored to play even a small part in that mission. We’re inspired by the teamwork between public safety professionals and the communities that champion them. We remain dedicated to supporting both.

To the officers of Imperial PD and the community members who back them: Thank you for your fearless leadership and being the change you want to see.

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