Boy battling lymphoma celebrates birthday as sheriff's deputy
Odie Garcia, who became a San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy for a day on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2014, is seen in two photos tweeted by the Sheriff's Department.
SAN BERNADINO COUNTY, California (KTLA) -- Odie Garcia was surprised when he got to meet a real-life sheriff a few months ago, but in celebration of his birthday, Odie's dream of becoming a deputy came true on Tuesday.
Back in May, Odie, who is battling lymphoma, told his family and members of the Debbie Chisholm Memorial Foundation that one day he would like to be a deputy.
Odie was 8-years-old at the time and was soon visited by San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon. He was given a ride in a patrol car and showered with gifts.
But Sheriff McMahon saved Odie's biggest surprise for his birthday.
On Tuesday, Odie stood in front of the sheriff and was sworn in as a deputy for the day.
Odie's duties included instructing academy trainees on push-up drills and a he was visited by members of the SWAT team.
Odie was also awarded a challenge coin for "upholding tradition and commitment."
Finally, Odie's big day concluded with a Happy Birthday song from everyone at the station.