A Journey of Dedication: Officer R.J. Bassett’s Torch Run for Special Olympics
Master Patrol Officer R.J. Bassett, a dedicated member of the Laconia Police Department since 2013, is no stranger to giving back to his community. As a passionate supporter of the Special Olympics New Hampshire, he has been participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run—a tradition that highlights law enforcement’s commitment to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their achievements.
Officer Bassett first discovered the Law Enforcement Torch Run through Doug Moorhead, a seasoned SONH volunteer and the former Chief of Police in neighboring Woodstock. Since then, Bassett’s commitment to supporting Special Olympics has only grown. He isn’t new to physically demanding events, having participated in grueling Spartan Races and the Millennium Running Footrace for the Fallen 5K, honoring officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. Though he may not frequent these races anymore, his heart remains with the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Beyond running in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Bassett leads the team of “Winni-Dippers” from the Laconia Police Department, contributing time and energy to various SONH events, including the State Winter and Summer Games. At these events, Bassett has witnessed the true power of Special Olympics in moments that reaffirm his dedication. He recalls one unforgettable moment at Waterville Valley when he placed a medal around an athlete’s neck and received a heartfelt hug and a simple “thank you.” That moment, he says, “hooked him for life.”
Now, Bassett is preparing to bring his commitment to a new level—internationally. In March 2025, he will represent New Hampshire in the Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. The Final Leg will serve as the official prelude to the Opening Ceremony, an experience that Bassett eagerly anticipates, calling it “pretty electric.” RJ will also get to observe the once-in-a-lifetime moment of witnessing the torch being blessed by the Pope in Rome before its lighting in Athens, Greece signifying the start of the games.
His journey begins on March 1st, as he joins a worldwide team of law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes in Torch Run activities that will lead up to the Opening Ceremony. Bassett will be joined by SONH athlete Scott McCullough, who will be competing in the snowshoe event at the Games. The two will each bring along their own “Flat Stanley”—a playful twist on the classic paper companion—to document their experiences. Bassett’s Stanley, in true patrol style, will accompany him on his police motorcycle rides and may even find itself behind bars for a photo op or two!
Officer Bassett’s journey is a testament to the power of inclusion, service, and resilience. As he represents New Hampshire in Turin, he brings not only his dedication to Special Olympics New Hampshire but also the unwavering spirit of his community. We wish him and Scott all the best as they carry the torch forward, shining a light on the athletes who inspire us all.