BILLINGS -Police departments across the country have had plenty of unexpected visitors over the last month, but they're always excited to see Savannah Solis on her cross-country tour.
"About five and a half years ago I started writing thank you cards for law enforcement," Savannah Solis said.
"She saw the widow of an officer who had been gunned down and her compassionate heart just started making cards and I think it is over 10,000 cards that she has made total. She's sent cards to over ten different countries," Savannah's mother Debbie Solis said.
The teenager from Texas has been traveling with her family for more than five years to police and sheriff departments.
Her tour brought her to Billings, making Montana the 30th state on her list.
"She gave the most heartfelt speech. What really inspired me were the words," Billings Police Chief Rich St. John said.
Officers all across Texas, you matter to me, officers all across the country, you matter to me, officers all around the world, you matter to me.
Savannah has written a children's book, titled "She believed she could so she did."
"Shaquille O'neil sent me a message telling me to write a book. I don't think he thought I would take it seriously, but I did," Savannah Solis said.
She will also have a foundation fully functional in October offering scholarships to those pursuing law enforcement, and to the children of fallen officers.
"They never know when they're saying their last goodbye. They're my heroes. I want to be an officer when I grow up, and every time I meet an officer," Savannah Solis said.
Savannah Solis has also received recognition from former President George W. Bush and President Donald Trump.
"To hear that from a young person like that makes all those lousy days worth while, makes you want to keep up and keep on going," St. John said.
She hopes to write additional books in the future, featuring the same character from her first book.
Solis also has started the Savannah challenge, speaking in schools where she encourages others to share their gratitude.
To follow Savannah, or complete the Savannah Challenge, visit the Facebook page: Help Savannah Say Thank You.
