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Fair Lawn police officers joined others from throughout the state to provide “basic police recruit-styled instruction” to those interested in a career in law enforcement.
“It’s an incredible honor to work with these outstanding young men and women,” Officer Michael O’Brien, a veteran Explorers drill instructor who helps coordinate the program, told CLIFFVIEW PILOT. “Their drive, cohesiveness, and enthusiasm not only assist the law enforcement community. It also enhances their ability to someday become police officers.
“They also become role models for others.”
O’Brien himself began his career as a Demarest Explorer in 1983 and has been involved with the program ever since. He received the noteworthy William H. Spurgeon, III Award in 2005 — a national honor given annually to the person who contributes the most significant leadership to the Explorers program.
The 32-year academy is sponsored by the Police Athletic League of NJ and includes participants from throughout the state.
Now in its 10th year, Fair Lawn Law Enforcement Explorer Post 902 was dedicated in memory of Police Officer Mary Ann Collura, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on April 17, 2003.
The Explorers, ages 14 to 21, participated in a variety of exercises and challenges, complete with boot camp-styled drills at the West Long Branch university. State, county and municipal officers also gave them classroom instruction.
Drill instructors began the academy each morning at 5:15 a.m. Then came the daily regimen of marching and physical training.
Trophies were also given out to winners in various areas of competition.
To be graduated from the program, an Explorer must complete four phases — one per year.
Explorer Lt. Alexander Tredy was graduated from the academy after successfully completing all four years.
Five others who attended the Monmouth camp were: Brett Salle, Jeffrey Joseph, Matthew Belmonty, Alexandra Vanni and Justin Lefebvre.
All will be recognized for their accomplishments at the awards and promotional ceremony at 7 p.m., Monday, Aug. 1, at the Fair Lawn Ambulance Corps building, 1 Coopers Way.
INFO: Contact O’Brien, (201) 796-1400, ext. 242, or: mobrien@fairlawnpd.com
Now in its 10th year, The Fair Lawn Law Enforcement Explorer Post 902 was dedicated in memory of Police Officer Mary Ann Collura, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on April 17, 2003.
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