Book excerpt: Ladd Paulson is Marine and a decorated motor officer dedicated to serving and protecting along the thin blue line. One night on patrol, a pickup truck going more than fifty miles per hour slammed into him during a routine car stop. Ladd was thrown onto the hood, and within seconds, the pickup crashed into a light pole. He landed in a parking lot, suffering multiple fractures and internal injuries. Ladd survived, but the miracles do not stop there. Dependence Day is the true story of Ladd’s recovery, written by the woman who loves him most— his wife Heidi. Although each day he battles significant pain and limitations due to his injuries, Ladd misses wearing the uniform and is determined to continue to serve his community and his law enforcement family. Ladd and Heidi share a dependence upon God that is evident throughout their lives. It is their hope that through sharing their story, others may be encouraged along their own journey.