CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- They are two men who share a special bond -- beyond law enforcement. Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson stood side-by-side with the police chief of Toronto yesterday at Soldier Field -- for the lighting of a lantern that will be used in Special Olympics in Toronto.
Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders introduced Superintendent Johnson.
"He is a fantastic leader when it comes to leadership in law enforcement in today's environment, understanding the importance of compassion. Ladies and gentlemen, I introduce to you Superintendent Eddie Johnson."
Superintendent Johnson talked about his close relationship with Chief Saunders.
"I can't thank him enough for some of the inspiration and advice he's given to me.
"For those of you who don't know, he and I share something else in common. We both had kidney transplants within about a month of each other in 2017, and we talk all the time about the trials and tribulations we had to go through with that.
"And that helps us know and motivates us when we see these tremendous athletes out here doing what they do."
The Eternal Flame of Hope outside Soldier Field was used to light the lantern for the Special Olympics Torch Run in Toronto.