Matthew Ballinger, a University of Illinois police officer, didn’t hesitate when he saw flames coming out of an Urbana home in the wee hours of the morning on May 28. He stopped his squad car, called 9-1-1 and entered the building. In the process, Ballinger was credited for helping save the lives of nine people who were in the house that morning. Ballinger, 35, has been on the U of I force for 5 and a half years. When he’s not working or spending time with his three children (preferably in the outdoors camping or canoeing), he stays fit by running and working out. He also enjoys traveling with his wife on their motorcycle.
See why we think Officer Matthew Ballinger is a Chambana dad to know.
Q: What is a typical day for a University of Illinois police officer?
A typical day includes a briefing, traffic/pedestrian enforcement, reports, Airport duties, and responding to other various calls for service.
Q: You have been called a hero for your efforts in saving several people in the Urbana fire. How does that make you feel?
I feel Hero is a very strong word to describe the actions I took. I do not feel that the word “Hero” should be used lightly. I simply did what I was trained to do because I did not feel that I had a choice on waiting for the fire department to arrive due to the rapidly growing fire. I could not stand by and do nothing.
Q: What do you think is important for parents to teach children about law enforcement officers?
Parents should encourage children to view police officers as helpers and not enforcers. We are called to solve problems, some of which usually have a negative impact on one of the parties involved. Unfortunately, children have to observe these interactions sometimes and can develop a negative perception towards police officers. We do enjoy helping people and try to make the community better.
Q: What has fatherhood taught you about yourself?
Fatherhood has made me less selfish. I have learned to try and split my time between my wife, kids, and career. I realize that my children will be grown up and gone one day, so I really make an effort to spend time with them. I have to give my wife the credit for me being a good father. She challenges me to think about things from a different angle. I never realized how little I knew about parenting until it was pointed out that I am wrong all the time…just joking.
Q: What is the most challenging aspect for you about being a dad?
The most challenging aspect is to be there for my family, yet excel in my profession. We have lots of special details, like football and basketball games, we work beyond our normal shifts. I am also involved in several other units at the department which require more of my time. My children are involved in different activities and require the normal shuffling of schedules to make appointments.
Editor’s Note: Ashley Ames, a woman who was seriously injured in the May 28 Urbana fire, passed away on Tuesday, July 6. Her family has been raising funds to cover her considerable medical expenses (she had no health insurance); now those funds will be used for funeral expenses. If you would like to donate, please visit her family’s blog for more information.
Do you know of a Chambana mom or dad to know? We love nominations!