06/08/2026
The Person Who Believed in Me
I recently saw a television program called The Person Who Believed in Me, and it immediately made me think of one person: Dave Lykins.
Years ago, while attending the Dayton Police Academy, I gave a speech about what a role model is. I spoke about Dave because he truly was my role model. Today, I realize he was also the person who believed in me.
In 1992, Dave gave me my start in law enforcement with the Enon Police Department. From there, I was able to advance my career, serving as a bailiff for the Clark County Municipal Court, then as an Intensive Adult Probation Officer, and ultimately retiring from the Dayton Police Department.
Dave had an impressive career of his own. He served as a Battalion Chief with the Fairborn Fire Department, an arson investigator, and later as Chief of Police for the Enon Police Department. But what I remember most is not his titles—it was the faith he had in me.
Dave gave me an opportunity when he didn’t have to. He believed in me, supported me, and helped open doors that changed the course of my life. A big part of who I am today is because someone took a chance on me.
Life is more than luck. You have to believe in yourself, work hard, and earn your success. But it makes all the difference when someone believes in you too.
Dave Lykins passed away a few years ago, but I will never forget what he did for me. I owe so much to him, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity he gave me and the confidence he showed in me.
Thank you, Dave. Your belief in me helped shape the man I became.