I came across this thread by chance whilst trying to establish who actually said it.
Having taken the time to read quite a few of the comments, I feel moved to add my own two pennies worth to it.
Being ex military and now a long serving police officer, I am that man who stands ready in the night. I am that man who will defend your property and the lives of you and your family. I am that man who walks down a dark alley not knowing what's at the end, just to make sure that there is nothing lurking in the shadows that may wish to do you harm. I am that man who you will call upon to help you in your time of need. I will be there at your side to protect you and yours. I will step in front of you to take whatever gets thrown your way. I say goodbye to my family at the start of every shift because I may not make it home through defending you and yours. I will do my part and all that I can to make sure that justice is served. I am not always a "rough man", but so help me God, if anybody tries to do you and your family any wrong or injustice, I will not hesitate to visit violence upon them if it is called for. I do this willingly so that you don't have to.
And I sleep peacefully at night knowing that there are other rough men standing ready to do the same on my behalf.