The Power Of Legacy by Randy Sutton is a compelling inspirational anthology that will invigorate one’s soul. Randy’s book is a collection of stories about people who, for the most part, aren’t household names. The vignettes of their lives and deeds, however, make them more important and powerful than any Hollywood actor could ever dream of being.
Randy Sutton’s story is itself one that is nothing short of amazing. He distinguished himself as one of the highest decorated police officers in the history of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. But Randy’s service wasn’t only limited to fighting crime. He earned a Presidential Point of Light Award from President George Bush for his creation of a reading program for inner city children. Additionally, Randy is an actor and author of several popular police anthologies.
In The Power Of Legacy, the author explains that “legacy” is what people leave behind and pass on to others. The term is most often associated with success, which in the present day seems to equate to notoriety and/or riches. However, Sutton would argue that one’s legacy is something intangible—a quality or moment that lasts forever.
In his book, the author introduces the reader to a collection of people who have had a huge impact on society, but for the most part eschew the spotlight. Case in point—Frank Shankwitz, who created a global phenomenon known as The Make-A-Wish foundation. Frank was a motorcycle cop in Arizona who granted a seven-year-old boy’s wish to become a highway patrol motorcycle officer like the stars of the old TV show, CHiPs. That experience was so satisfying that Frank wondered, “Why can’t we do that for all the children? Have them make a wish and then make it happen?”
In March of 1981, Frank wondered no longer. He began collecting donations and gathering the right people to address the wishes of children suffering from life-threatening diseases and conditions. He eventually persuaded companies like Disney to get on board with his dream, and since its inception, Make-A-Wish has granted the wishes of more than 300,000 children around the world.
Others profiled in the book that have left a legacy include actor, Gary Sinise, a staunch supporter and advocate for our nation’s servicemen and women. Also, Father Joe Carroll, who as a Catholic priest works tirelessly for innumerable homeless folks to restore their needs and dignity. Then there’s Sandy Heverly, a woman whose family was decimated by a drunk driver whose punishment amounted to a mere fine of $100.00. Her outrage and love for her departed family members caused her to launch a crusade to change the law.
These are but a few of the heart–warming stories in The Power Of Legacy. Each one carries its own message of hope and love, and each tale will restore or reinforce one’s faith. The book concludes with Randy’s own story of what prompted him to embark on this journey—a powerful message indeed. His book is one meant to be read more than once, for the inspiration it imbues is refreshing and much needed in our hedonistic, social media frenzied society. Hopefully, after reading Randy’s collection the reader will ponder his own legacy and perhaps try to change the world.
John M. Wills 
I used to correspond with Randy way back when PSWA was The Police Writers Club and he was with the Las Vegas PD, appeared on “Cops” often and wrote True Blue. He’s been very successful in many areas since that time, which is absolutely wonderful. Nice article, John, as always.
He is quite successful and has overcome a couple of strokes to further his success.
Oh my goodness, I didn’t know that. That’s even more remarkable.