2010 Police Memorial Week Dates Told

Official Dates for National Police Week 2010

Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15



Thursday, May 13 Annual Candlelight Vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

Saturday, May 15. The National Peace Officers' Memorial Service at the West Front of the United States Capitol.

Attend the 2010 Events.


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2010 Police Week Dates Told

Official Dates of National Police Week 2010.

Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15

Thursday, May 13 Annual Candlelight Vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

Saturday, May 15. The National Peace Officers' Memorial Service at the West Front of the United States Capitol

Plan to attend these events.

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Female Cop Stops Fort Hood Active Shooter

Associated Press
November 06, 2009

Fort Hood, Texas (AP) – A civilian police officer who shot the Fort Hood gunman four times during his bloody rampage stopped the attacker cold, a U.S. Army official said Friday.

Officer Kimberly Munley of the Fort Hood Police Department is a “trained, active first responder” who acted quickly after she “just happened to encounter the gunman,” said Lt. Gen. Bob Cone, Fort Hood’s commanding general.

Cone said the officer and her partner responded “very quickly” to the scene of the shootings — reportedly in around three minutes.

Munley “just happened very fortunately to be very close to the incident scene,” Cone told CNN’s “American Morning.”

He said she shot the gunman four times and was wounded herself in an exchange of gunfire with him.

“Really a pretty amazing and aggressive performance by this police officer,” Cone said.

Authorities have identified the alleged gunman as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, 39, an Army psychiatrist. They said he opened fire at a military processing center Thursday at Fort Hood, killing 13 people and wounding 30 others.

Cone was asked if Munley’s shots brought down the assailant and stopped him from shooting.

“That’s correct,” Cone said. “The critical factor here was her quick response to the situation.”


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Ft. Hood Shooting Suspect Alive

Army Says Shooting Suspect Is Not Dead, but Is in Custody and in Stable Condition

The suspect in a shooting that killed 12 people Thursday at
Fort Hood, Tex., is alive and is in custody, contrary to
earlier reports, the commanding officer at Fort Hood said


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Chaplain Talks About Ft. Hood Trauma

AAPO President Chaplain Dave Fair was interviewed Friday morning for Premier Christian Radio in the UK concerning the shooting events at Ft. Hood, Texas.

Chaplain Fair was interviewed by Premier's breakfast journalist, Catherine Tarr.

The interview concerned traumatic stress reactions people suffer following these type of incidents.

Fair worked with officers of the Killeen, Texas Police Department following the Luby's murders near Ft. Hood in 1991.

Please pray for the soldiers and families at Ft. Hood.





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Ft. Hood Reminded of Killeen Murders in 1991

The army base shooting that killed 7 people in Fort Hood, Texas, today brings the memories of the Luby's massacre that took place in Killeen, Texas, a town next Fort Hood, on October 16, 1991.

Gunman George Hennard drove his truck into Luby's Cafeteria, and than shot and killed 23 people. Hennard committed suicide after the shootings.

The incident remained the deadliest random shooting incident in American history until the Virginia Tech Massacre that claimed the lives of 32 people.

For more than 15 years, the city next to the sprawling Fort Hood military base had the dubious distinction of being the site of the deadliest mass shooting in the United States -- until a student killed 32 people and himself at Virginia Tech in 2007.
Source: cnn.com



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Shootings at Ft. Hood

As many as three gunmen opened fire on military personnel in the Soldier Readiness Center of Fort Hood, Texas early afternoon Nov. 5, killing seven and wounding 30. One gunman is reported to be in custody while the other two are reported to be on the loose on the nearly 215,000-acre military complex. The gunmen are reported to be in military fatigues, which could present problems identifying the suspects. Fort Hood is on lock-down, as is the Killeen Independent School District.

Please pray for soldiers and their families.




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Ship Made From 911 Wreckage in New York

New York (CNN) -- The new Navy assault ship USS New York steamed into New York harbor Monday, cutting through the water with a bow built using seven and a half tons of steel recovered from the wreckage of the World Trade Center.

Its crew stood at attention and a 21-gun salute greeted the ship. Firefighters, bagpipers, and those who lost loved ones on 9/11 lined the shore to watch the emotional arrival. The docking holds special meaning for many families of those who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

"What better way for our young men and women that are going to be on the USS New York to feel the spirit of our country than to have this ship have the steel in the bow that represents not the bad but the good of our country," said Lee Ielpi, who lost his firefighter son, Jonathan, on 9/11.


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Seattle Officer Killed, Trainee Injured in Shooting

By MANUEL VALDES
Associated Press Writer

SEATTLE --

Few clues have emerged from a drive-by shooting that left a nine-year veteran Seattle police officer dead and a trainee injured on Halloween night.

Investigators on Sunday fielded tips, interviewed potential witnesses and scoured through video tapes for evidence that would lead them to the assailant or assailants. They have not yet identified a suspect or the suspect's vehicle, nor have they determined what kind of weapon was used.

Killed in the Saturday night shooting was field training officer Timothy Brenton, 39. Rookie officer Britt Sweeney, 33, suffered a minor injury.

The two were discussing a routine traffic stop while parked in downtown Seattle when their police cruiser was suddenly struck several times by gunfire shortly after 10 p.m., officials said.



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Three DEA Agents Killed With Troops

From ODMP

AP and Los Angles Times via YellowBrix

October 27, 2009

Update: The names of the three DEA agents killed in the crash have been released:

Special Agent Forrest N. Leamon, 37, of Woodbridge, Va.

Special Agent Chad L. Michael, 30, of Quantico, Va.

Special Agent Michael E. Weston, 37, of Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON — A U.S. official says three Drug Enforcement Administration agents were killed Monday when a U.S. military helicopter went down in the west of Afghanistan. The casualties mark the first DEA deaths in Afghanistan since the drug agency began operations there in 2005. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because no formal announcement has been made.

Seven U.S. service members were also killed in the crash in the west of the country. Officials say the helicopter had left the scene of a fire fight with insurgents.
------------------
Please pray for the families of the agents and soldiers.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Fair Named as Board Chairman

Chaplain David J. Fair, PhD has been named Chairman of the Board of the Academy of Certified Chaplains (ACC). The appointment was made during the groups 2009 Conference in Las Vegas and announced by Association Officer Aaron Nesbitt.

The Academy is part of the American Psychotherapy Association (APA) and falls under the overall covering of the American College of Forensic Examiners. The organization was started almost 20 years ago by Dr. Robert O'Block who today oversees the numerous organizations including the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security and the American Association of Integrative Medicine.

" I'm extremely honored to be appointed to the position", Fair said, " I'm humbled and look forward to serving the Academy members in every way possible."

Chaplain Fair, is President of the American Association of Police Officers, and was a presenter at the Annual Conference in Las Vegas. His paper was entitled Terrorism Trauma Syndrome and is soon to be offered as a certification course for the American Board of Certification in Homeland Security.

Fair has also written two courses for the APA, Mastering Law Enforcement Chaplaincy and Introduction to Military Chaplaincy.

The AAPO was also an exhibitor at the 2009 Conference.

TSA Hits Bus Stations

Hoping to keep terrorists and others off-guard the TSA conducted a random security check of nearly 700 Bus passengers in Orlando Florida yesterday, using the agency’s Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response, or VIPR.



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Taser Warning

The Associated Press

PHOENIX --

Taser International is advising police agencies across the nation not to shoot its stun guns at a suspect's chest.

The Arizona-based company says such action poses a risk - albeit extremely low - of an "adverse cardiac event."

The advisory was issued in an Oct. 12 training bulletin. It marks the first time that Taser has suggested there is any risk of a cardiac arrest related to the use of its 50,000-volt stun guns.

Taser officials said Tuesday the bulletin does not state that Tasers can cause cardiac arrest. They said the advisory means only that law-enforcement agencies can avoid controversy if their officers aim at areas other than the chest.

Critics called it a stunning reversal for the company.

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St. Louis Officer Dies

From Officer Down Memorial Page

St. Louis Post-Dispatch via YellowBrix

October 16, 2009
ST. LOUIS, MO — A young policeman with the St. Louis Police Department has died of injuries from an Oct. 6 crash in his patrol car, the department announced Friday.

Officer Julius Moore, 23, died at about 6 p.m. Thursday at St. Louis University Hospital.

Moore had been at the hospital’s intensive care unit in critical condition since the crash.

Moore was hurt 10 days ago when he collided with a tractor-trailer at the intersection of South Broadway and Arsenal Street. Moore was in his patrol car, with the lights and sirens on, rushing to help other Third District police officers catch burglars. Just before 1 p.m. on Oct. 6, Moore’s patrol car and the truck were both heading south. The truck started to make a right turn and struck the officer’s car, pushing it into a traffic light and a brick wall.

Please pray for the family and agency.

Chaplain Dave Fair


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Officer Dies From Shooting Injuries

From Officer Down Memorial Page:

The ODMP
October 14, 2009

Lieutenant Benjamin Santiago-Fragoso and Agent Jorge Sanchez-Santiago were shot and killed as they transported a prisoner jail.

The prisoner was somehow able to obtain one of the officers’ weapons. Agent Sanchez-Santiago was shot once in the head and Lieutenant Santiago-Fragoso was shot three times in the chest and critically wounded.

The suspect fled the scene but was arrested the next day after an extensive search by the FBI, USMS and the Puerto Rico Police Department. The FBI has assumed jurisdiction of the case as a car jacking case.

Lieutenant Santiago-Fragoso succumbed to his wounds five weeks later.

Lieutenant Santiago-Fragoso had served with the agency for 24 years and served as the director of the Vehicle Theft Division. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Please pray for the family and agency.

Chaplain Dave Fair

NC Officer Dies of Injuries

From Officer Down Memorial Page

WINSTON-SALEM --

The Winston-Salem Police Department announced Monday evening that Sgt. Mickey Hutchens, a 27-year veteran of the Winston-Salem police force, died Monday. He was 50.

Hutchens suffered a gunshot wound to the head five days ago in a firefight behind the Peters Creek Bojangles' restaurant, according to police.

City officials had said Hutchens' had taken at turn for the worse over the weekend. He died at 6:56 p.m., surrounded by his family.

Police said Hutchens was wounded by a gunshot fired by suspect Monte Denard Evans, 35, of Winston-Salem. Evans was shot and killed in the gun battle.

Police Chief Scott Cunningham released a statement Monday evening, saying, "Mickey was an exceptional person. For more than 27 years he dedicated his life to the service of others. Mickey sacrificed his life protecting the citizens of Winston-Salem. His sacrifice was not in vain. He believed in what he was doing. He spent his life helping others."

The statement went on to say, "Mickey was an organ donor, and as we speak, a team of surgeons are removing his vital organs so that others may live."

Cunningham said Friday Hutchens had suffered "extremely serious injuries."

Officer Daniel Clark, 28, was also injured, suffering a gunshot wound to his neck and abdomen. Clarks bulletproof vest deflected the shot to his midsection. He was released from Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Friday afternoon.

The incident started as a domestic dispute between Evans and his ex-wife, a manager at the restaurant.

"The impact of this is significant not only to the family, but to the entire community," Cunningham said.

Members of the local community gathered Friday to offer prayers for Hutchens and Clark. At the Forbush High School football game, a moment of silence was observed to show support for Hutchens' family.

"This is just such a tragedy, and prayer is what keeps them going," said Hutchens family friend Lark Williams. "I know it's what keeps me going."

"Beth has been very strong," Williams said. "She knew all her life this was a possibility, but he loved his job and loved serving his community."

Please pray for the family and department.

Chaplain Dave Fair

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Off to Vegas

I'm headed to Las Vegas today to represent the American Association of Police Officers at the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security Conference.

I'll also be attending the board meeting of the Academy of Certified Chaplains, part of the group.

Be watching for blogs from the conference.

Chaplain Dave Fair


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Terrorist in U. S.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said terrorists with al-Qaeda leanings are in the U.S. and that the threat of attack “is always with us.” “It is fair to say there are individuals in the United States who ascribe to al-Qaeda-type beliefs,” Napolitano said in an interview with Bloomberg Television today.


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Vegas Officer Dies in Crash

The AP via YellowBrix
October 08, 2009

LAS VEGAS—Las Vegas police say one of the department’s officers has been killed in a car crash.

Police say two officers were in a single-vehicle crash Wednesday. The patrol vehicle the officers were in left the roadway, hit something and overturned.

Both officers suffered life-threatening injuries. One officer, 30-year-old Milburn “Millie” Beitel (BUY’-dole), died early Thursday at University Medical Center after surgery.

The other officer is in serious but stable condition.

The reason for the crash is unclear.


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St. Louis Officer Shot

ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- A teenager who went to the hospital for a gunshot wound to the hand and a 22-year-old man have been arrested in the deadly home invasion that killed a nurse and critically wounded an off-duty St. Louis policewoman early today, police said.

Police identified the woman who was shot to death as Gina Stallis, 34. Stallis was a popular registered nurse in the oncology department at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center on North Grand Boulevard in St. Louis.

Co-worker John Waldmann, 33, also of St. Louis, said he worked at the medical center with Stallis for the past five years. He said that Stallis has two children.

St. Louis police said that about 1:10 a.m. today, a 27-year-old off-duty police officer was being escorted to her car by her 29-year-old boyfriend as she left a house located in an area that is
just south of downtown St. Louis. The couple were approached by two gunmen, who forced them back inside the home they had just left. Six more people were inside, police said.

The two suspects then announced a robbery. Then, police said, a struggle ensued and the officer was shot at least three times -- twice in the chest and once in the leg. She is listed in critical condition at a local hospital after undergoing surgery this morning.

"The Metropolitan Police Department extends our thoughts and prayers to our officer and all those involved in the incident," according to a police department press release.

DHS Chief Speaks in Denver

Denver - Secretary Napolitano delivered remarks at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference in Denver, Colo., emphasizing her commitment to enhanced information sharing with state and local law enforcement partners to combat threats of terrorism.


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Texas Deputy Killed in Wreck

Officer.com News

A Burnet, Texas County Deputy was killed early Saturday after hitting a deer while responding to a crash scene, according to KXAN.com.

Deputy Francis David Blake was responding to a major accident with injuries at about 1 a.m. when he struck the deer. He then lost control of his vehicle and struck a tree, the website reported.

Blake, 42, was pronounced dead at the scene. He is survived by his wife and four children.

Please pray for his family and department.

Chaplain Dave Fair



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Police Line-of- Duty Deaths Drop

After jumping 20 percent in the first six months of 2009, the number of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty fell sharply during the third quarter of this year and is on pace to reach a five-decade low this year, according to preliminary data from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.


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“SUPPORT THOSE WHO RIDE FOR THOSE WHO DIED”

THE POLICE UNITY TOUR TEAM

“WE RIDE FOR THOSE WHO DIED”
Copyright APD Lt. Joe Tauer, All Rights Reserved

We are in need of your agency badges to help support a fundraiser for APD, SO, and DPS Law Enforcement Personnel who will ride from Newark, N.J. to Washington, D.C. in honor of those law enforcement officers in the State of Texas who have made the ultimate sacrifice. In Washington, D.C. they will ride into the National Law Enforcement Memorial where family members of those officers killed in-the-line-of-duty will be lining the streets. It is meaningful for the families that others would make such a journey on behalf of their loved one. Your help in providing badges will enable us to take a picture like that above which will be sold to raise needed funds to participate. Your support in this very important endeavor is greatly appreciated.

Contact Chaplain Donna for further information on how to safely participate: (325) 660-6266

--------------------

AAPO supports this wonderful project.

Chaplain Dave Fair


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A Message from Ed Stauffer in Regard to Ken Erickson

The following is a personal message from the Executive Director of the Federation of Fire Chaplains.

Let's keep them all in our prayers.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Dear Chaplains,

We again have lost a good friend and fellow Chaplain this past week. We will miss Ken and our prayers and thought are with his family, friends and the Fire Departments he served.

Yesterday we sent out the Memorial Service arrangements and I will repeat them now.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, October the 7th at 11:AM at St. Edwards Church, 997 Branch Avenue Providence, RI. Fire Fighters and friend are all invited to attend.

Also, Joe Leeder who is a close long time friend of Ken's will receive any cards condolences and thoughts you might want to send to his family. Joe will see to it his family will receive all thoughts, cards and prayers.
Mail to Joe Leeder
918 Chopmist Hill, Rd.
Scituate, RI 02857

Let us continue to remember Ken his family and friends in prayer.

Chaplain Mike Leckie has been ministering to the family and will be the officiant at the Memorial Service,
He is a long time friend and Co-worker in the Chaplaincy with Ken let us remember him in our prayers also as he ministers during this time of tragedy.

God Bless,
Ed Stauffer

FFC Fire Chaplain Dies

It is with deep regrets that the Federation of Fire Chaplains announces the death of Chaplain Ken Erickson of Providence, RI. Chaplain Erickson died this morning of a cause yet to be determined.

Chaplain Erickson was a long time member of the Federation of Fire Chaplains and played a big part in putting together the 2008 Annual Conference in Rhode Island. Chaplain Erickson has helped out the Federation in many, many ways and has touched the lives of many people. He will be missed tremendously by the staff and members.

As a fellow member of FFC I ask for your prayers for the Chaplain's family and his FFC family.

Thank you,

Chaplain Dave Fair, AAPO President

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Deputy Killed in Ambush

Topeka Capital Journal via YellowBrix

September 29, 2009

SEDGWICK COUNTY, Kans. — A Sedgwick County sheriff’s deputy shot Monday morning in an apparent ambush has died of his injuries, and the man suspected of shooting him also has died following a shootout with police, authorities said.

Brian S. Etheridge, 26, was shot twice shortly before noon outside a southeast Wichita home where he was responding to an apparently routine call about a larceny, Sheriff Robert Hinshaw said.

The deputy arrived at the home at 11:51 a.m. and reported at 12:01 p.m. that he had been shot.


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Four SWAT Officers Shot

4 SWAT team officers shot in raid on NJ shore home

By WAYNE PARRY (AP) –

LAKEWOOD, N.J. — A gunman opened fire early Thursday on a SWAT team that burst into a home during a drug and gun raid, wounding four officers while spraying bullets from atop a staircase, authorities said. One officer was critically wounded.
Lakewood Patrolman Jonathan Wilson was shot in the face during the raid, and was in critical but stable condition at a local hospital. Authorities said they were optimistic he would survive despite being grievously wounded.

Please pray for these officers.

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Deputy Killed in LOD

Columbus Ledger-Enquirer via YellowBrix
September 25, 2009
OPELIKA — Lee County Sheriff’s Deputy James Anderson died Thursday while in the line of duty.

Anderson, 39, was struck by a vehicle just before 1 p.m. CDT as he approached a car during a traffic stop at Lee Road 240 and Lee Road 234 in Smiths Station, said Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. The suspect driving the car, Gregory Lance Henderson, 31, of Columbus faces a charge of capital murder, the sheriff said.

Please pray for the family and officers of the department.

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Chaplain Dave Fair and Barney Fife

In the 1960's one of the nation's favorite TV shows was the Andy Griffith Show. One of the stars of the hit series was Don Knotts who played Deputy Barney Fife.

American Association of Police Officer's President Chaplain Dave Fair recently had some fun in central Texas during a "Classic Car Show" the hit of the show was Barney's Patrol Car a 1960 Ford.

Above Knott's signature on the car's dashboard and several photos of Fair, including one beside the Sheriff's Star that reads "Sheriff City of Mayberry"

Police Pulse Blog - Nationwide Crime is Down

Unemployment, interest rates, stress—they’re all on the rise as the economy is buffeted by a downturn. What’s not rising, however, is crime, according to statistics compiled by the FBI that show violent crimes and property crimes declined nationwide in 2008. The data, released this week in the FBI’s annual Crime in the United States publication, show violent crimes declined for the second straight year, down 1.9 percent in 2008 from a year earlier. Each of the four categories of violent crime offenses showed declines, including murder and nonnegligent manslaughter (down 3.9 percent); aggravated assault (down 2.5 percent); and forcible rape (down 1.6 percent).
Property crimes on the whole declined for the sixth straight year, led in large part by a 12.7 percent reduction in motor vehicle thefts. Burglaries (up 2 percent) and larceny-thefts (up .3 percent) showed small increases from a year earlier. Losses from property crimes last year are valued at more than $17 billion.

The statistics are provided to the FBI by nearly 17,800 law enforcement agencies that participate voluntarily in FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program.

READ MORE AT POLICEPULSE.COM

Fair to Speak at Homeland Security Conference

American Association of Police Officers President Dr. David J. Fair, PhD will speak during the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security 2009 Conference this October in Las Vegas.

Chaplain Fair is Board Certified in Homeland Security Level IV (CHS-IV) as well as well as Board Certified as an Expert in Traumatic Stress.

Dr. Fair, will present an original peer reviewed paper on Terrorism Trauma Syndrome (TTS) that helps police supervisors and military officers identify the new phenomena with it's genesis in terrorist attacks. The presentation also includes the newest methods of treating trauma in our law enforcement and military community.

The AAPO will be promoting their programing such as the Chaplain's Project, and the Survivor Network designed to assist agencies in the aftermath of a line-of-duty-death, at the Exhibit Hall.

The ABCHS Conference is part of the American College of Forensic Examiners International, and American Psychotherapy Association Conference.

Fair holds a PhD in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology, and is a recognised expert in traumatic stress, and chaplaincy issues.

In addition to Terrorism Trauma Syndrome which has become an ABCHS Certification Course, Fair has just completed a course called Combat Stress Management and Intervention that has just cleared peer review.

Chaplain Fair serves on the Curriculum Committee of ABCHS and is on the Editorial Advisory Board for Inside Homeland Security where he also contributes the Chaplain's Column.

A Licensed Texas Peace Officer, Fair recently retired as an Emergency Medical Technician.

He serves as a military chaplain and senior chaplain for the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Dr. Fair was deployed to Ground Zero following 911 and served during the East Texas Space Shuttle Recovery and during Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Dolly and Ike.

Thanks From New York

Thanks to everyone for their prayers and support for the survivors and families of 911. There were a number of memorial services around the country. I had the honor or speaking by phone last Friday (9/11/09) to a Paramedic Supervisor who was on duty in NYC on 911. She expressed her thanks to the hundreds of people from the emergency services who responded to Ground Zero Sept. 11, 2001.

Continue to pray for all. Thanks and blessings- Chaplain Dave


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AAPO President Dave Fair Receives Award

AAPO President Dave Fair was presented a Commemorative Badge during the recent Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International Conference.

The badge depicting the Twin Towers in the background along with the CFMI Logo was presented to Fair for, " His contribution to Chaplaincy", according to Dr. Donald Gibson, President and Founder of the group who presented Fair with the award.

AAPO Helps Sponsor CFMI Conference

The 5th Annual Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International Conference was help this month in Killeen, Texas.

Chaplains from a number of states including California, Arizona, Tennessee, New York, and Texas attended the three day conference.

Hospital, Race Car, Hospice, Hospital, Fire, Emergency Medical Services and Police Chaplains were represented.

American Association of Police Officers was one of the sponsors of the event. At left a Chaplain views material on the AAPO display table. AAPO President Dave Fair made two presentations for the conference. One was an overview of Law Enforcement Chaplaincy (right photo) and the other was the 911 Memorial conducted on Friday, September 11, 2009.

Officer Killed in Shooting

Charleston Police Officer Shot and Killed

Charleston Gazette
September 13, 2009

CHARLESTON, WV – A Charleston police officer was shot and killed in the line of duty early Sunday morning, Mayor Danny Jones said.

Patrolman Jerry Jones, 27, was killed during an altercation with a suspect who he pursued to the Elk River area sometime after midnight, Jones said.

The suspect, whose identity has yet to be released, was involved in an altercation with police earlier Saturday evening and had run from them, he said.

The suspect’s car was chased from inside Charleston to the Elk River area, where he pulled over in a gravel area, Jones said.

There he started ramming police cars, at which point officers fired on the vehicle, Jones said.

Both the suspect and Patrolman Jones were killed, the mayor said. Jones was wearing his bullet-proof vest and was shot just above the vest, the mayor said. “He was a young man in his 20s, with a young wife,” Jones said. “About half the police department showed up last night, between 3 and 6 in the morning, at headquarters. His wife and parents were there too. Their son went to work and didn’t make it back.”

Thanks to Officer Down Memorial Page for Information.

Please pray for the family and department.

Chaplain Dave Fair


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Longtime Peace Officer Dies

It's with sadness I announce the death of my longtime friend former Brown County (Tx) Sheriff W. B. "Bill" Donahoo.

Sheriff Donahoo had also served as Chief of Police of the Brownwood (Tx) Police Dept.

Sheriff Donahoo appointed me to my first peace office post as a Deputy Sheriff for the department.

He was a great friend and mentor and will be greatly missed.

Please keep his family in your prayers.

Thank you,

Chaplain Dave Fair, President
American Association of
Police Officers.


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Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning?

September 11th, 911. I'm curtain everyone remembers where they were and what they were doing on that tragic day.

I remember standing before a make shift memorial at Ground Zero just a few days after the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center Buildings.

I recall the contrast of watching the smoke still coming from the rubble, yet in the other direction seeing the Statute of Liberty still standing tall as if watching over the rescue workers and victims.

Yesterday I sat down to look at some 911 photos and listening to two songs. Alan Jackson's, Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning?, and Proud to be an American by Lee Greenwood.

I recalled visiting a gravely injured Port Authority Police Officer in New York's Belleview Hospital, and how he remarked he was so amazed people had come from all over the world to help.

I remember where I was that day, and I'm proud to be an American. Yet I will never forget

lest my brother and sister law enforcement officers will have died in vain.

Take a few moments out this September 11th to pray and remember.

GOD BLESS THE USA

Chaplain Dave Fair, President

American Association of Police Officers

Best Ways to Keep Updated on Mid-Eastern and Gulf Countries

I was recently taking a course on the psycology of terrorist. The instructor pointed out one of the best ways to keep up with the mid-eastern and gulf countries was to subscribe to Aljazeera (English TV) via internet, and the Gulf New, online from Dubi. For less than $10 a month I can now keep up with what's happening in key countries. Aljazeera is a professionally produced network much like CNN with every report in English.

Gulf News is done in English and on par in quality with the New York Times. The main point is law enforcement and other agencies interested in keeping up with what is happening can do so by using these news sources.

Let's stay alert!

Chaplain Dave Fair

Fire Chaplain Dies in Line-of- Duty

It is with our deepest regret and sympathy that we announce the line of duty death of Chaplain Richard Holst. Richard was the Chief Chaplain of the New York State Association of Fire Chaplains and a long time member of the Federation of Fire Chaplains. Chaplain Holst was the chaplain and captain of the fire/police squad of the Huntington Manor Fire Department in Suffolk County, New York.

Chaplain Holst died this morning after collapsing on the scene of an early morning fire. Here is part of an article from Firehouse.com about the incident: Richard Holst, 60, lived near the burning building and reported the fire after smelling smoke, the report said.

He had been a member of the department for 31 years and served as chaplain for much of that time. The fire occurred at the Uber Cafe bagel shop in Huntington Station at approximately 3:02 a.m. and was put out by 3:32 a.m. Wednesday, September 9th.

Holst collapsed after emergency responders came to the scene and was taken to Huntington Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

"The Huntington Manor Fire Department regrets to announce the line-of-duty death," Chief Robert Herley said in a prepared statement. The Suffolk County police arson squad is investigating the blaze. Please keep Chaplain Holst's family and co-workers in your prayers.

As a member of the Federation of Fire Chaplains, I want to extend my sympathy and that of the

American Association of Police Officers to the family and Department.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Fair Receives Two Military Honors

Chaplain David J. Fair, President of the American Association of Police Officers has received two awards for this service in the Texas Military Forces, Texas State Guard.

Major Fair was recently awarded the Texas Medal of Merit. The citation partly reads, " His devotion to duty, tireless efforts, and attention to detail reflect credit upon himself, the Joint Forces Texas, and the Texas State Guard.

The second award is the TXSG Organizational Excellence Award in conducting the Disaster Assessment Exercise 2009, Camp Bowie, Texas.

Chaplain Fair is attached to the TXSG-HQ at Camp Mabry Texas.

AAPO to Attend ABCHS

Representatives of the American Association of Police Officers will attend the up coming conference of the American Board of Certification in Homeland Security this October in Las Vegas.

AAPO will have an exhibit introducing attendees to the programming of the AAPO and its related organizations.

Additionally, Dr. Dave Fair, President of AAPO will present a paper on Terrorism Trauma Syndrome during the conference.

Watch this blog for updated information.

Fair to Speak at Chaplain Fellowship Ministries Conference

Chaplain Dave Fair, President of the American Association of Police Officers will speak this month at the Annual Conference of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International in Killeen, Texas.

Dr. Fair was deployed to Ground Zero following 911 and will present

on the topic " Least We Forget- 911 Remembered". The presentation will be on September 11th during the CFMI conference.

" CFMI is a tremendous organization for chaplains and I am proud to belong to the group and play a small part in the 911 Remembrance, " Fair said.

911 Anniversary Coming Soon

I remember being on my way to City Hall in my community on September 11, 2001. I was listening to the news on a local radio station and it was reported a small plane had flown into one of the World Trade Center Towers. Likely an accident.

A short time later as we were in the City Council Chambers someone came in and reported to us another plane had struck the second tower. It looked like American was under attack.

The meeting was quickly dismissed and we were left to ponder what was happening and how it was going to effect our families.

A few days later on September 14^th I received a deployment order from the International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC) ordering me to Ground Zero to work with the Port Authority as a Chaplain.

I’ll never forget those days in New York at Ground Zero. Trying to make some since of it all and coming to the conclusion as a Police Chaplain the best I could give was, “ the ministry of presence”.

Annually the ICPC has its training seminar attended by hundreds of chaplains. We train, we talk and we remember.

It’s good to see the eagerness on the faces of new Police Chaplains. To sense their enthusiasm.

There is always a small group of us there who remember. Who have looked death in the face and will never forget.

Chaplain Dave Fair

AAPO President Trains for Line-of-Duty Death Support

American Association of Police Officers President Dave Fair has recently completed training to assist survivor families and department members following an officer line-of-duty death.

The training included crisis intervention and critical incident stress management

The class as taught by Chief Vaughn Donaldson of Midland, Texas.

Chaplain Fair oversees our Officer Down Crisis Response Program. He is also the coordinator of FirsTEXAS CISM Team which responds throughout the Lone Star State.

U.S. to Provide $1 Billion to Hire Officers

CNN) -- The federal government will give $1 billion in grants to law enforcement agencies in every state to pay for the hiring and rehiring of law enforcement officers, Vice President Joe Biden and Attorney General Eric Holder announced Tuesday.

Police officers in Chicago, Illinois, patrol the streets in November 2008.

The money comes from the stimulus bill -- the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 -- the officials said. The law is designed to help pull the U.S. out of its recession by providing and saving jobs, and helping those most affected by the downturn in the economy.

Beneficiaries can include state, local and tribal governments.

The Department of Justice received more than 7,200 applications for more than 39,000 officer positions, representing a total of $8.3 billion in requested funding.

Colorado Officer Shot and Killed

DENVER --

A witness said he heard about 12 shots in five seconds during a shooting in Montrose late Saturday night that killed a police officer and injured two others.

Sheriff's deputies and police were called to a domestic dispute at 16915 64.50 Road around 8:30 p.m., said police Chief Tom Chinn.


-- Post From My iPhone

Two Oklahoma Deputies Shot and Killed

SEMINOLE, Okla. -- Two Seminole County deputies were killed and a woman was wounded when a man opened fire while deputies were trying to serve an arrest warrant at a Seminole residence Sunday, authorities said.

Ezekiel Holbert, 26, was jailed on murder complaints, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation spokeswoman Jessica Brown said.

Holbert was in his mother's home, 503 N Second St., about 3 p.m. when she called authorities, Brown said.


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Quick Arrests in Border Patrol Murder

Three people were arrested at a hospital in San Jose Friday in connection with the killing of a Border Patrol agent in San Diego County Thursday night.

Agents with the Department of Homeland Security surrounded the hospital and arrested two men and one woman.At least one suspect wanted for the murder of U.S. Border Patrol agent Robert Rosas was reportedly injured during the attack and may seek medical attention on either side of the U.S.-Mexico border, authorities said Friday.


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Officer Down Crisis Response Seminar Set

Retired L.A. Police Sgt. John Cooley will speak at an upcoming AAPO, Officer Down Crisis Response Seminar in Stockton CA. this September

There will be some 75 local chaplains and department administrators attending. The event is headed by Chaplain Reid of the Stocktoni Police Department.

The training includes handing a line-of-duty death and police funerals.


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Border Patrolman Killed in California

A U.S. Border Patrol Agent was shot and killed Thursday night on the U.S. Mexico border in southern California.

Officials report the agent was murdered chasing drug smugglers who they believe fled to Mexico.

U. S. and Mexican authorities were joined by local police and the FBI in the investigation.

The agent was the first Border Patrolman killed this year


-- Post From My iPhone

Police Participate in FEMA Disaster Training

Law Enforcement Officers nationwide are taking part in required FEMA/ Homeland Security Disaster Training.

One recent training session was help in Brownwood, Texas. Pictured third from left is Early, Texas Police Chief David Mercer.

AAPO President Dave Fair also participated in the training

Line of Duty Deaths on the Rise

The number of line of duty deaths continues to increase. Especially multiple officer shootings.

The latest multiple shooting is the incident involving 5 New Jersey police officers shot in the line of duty. There has been one line-of-duty death come for that multiple shooting incident.

As President of the American Association of Police Officers I sadly come in contact with a number of line of duty deaths.

Please be safe out there and let's watch each others backs.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Beware of Swine Flu

All law enforcement officers are being warned to take care of themselves as the threat of Swine Flu increases.

Police officers resistance tends to run low due in part to shift work, a steady fast food diet and stress.

The American Association of Police Officers reminds you to take care of your self.

And let's stay safe out there,

Chaplain Dave Fair

Officer Injured in Shooting Dies

A Jersey City police officer critically wounded in a shootout with two robbery suspects last week died on Tuesday, one day before his 38th birthday.

Mayor Jerramiah Healy said Officer Marc DiNardo, who had been on life support, was pronounced dead around 9:35 a.m.

The 37-year-old was shot in the face with a shotgun blast as he and other officers tried to storm an apartment Thursday.

The officer had no signs of life when he arrived at Jersey City Medical Center that day and had to be revived several times before he could be stabilized in critical condition.

His family issued a statement over the weekend calling him "a fighter" and thanking the community for its "overwhelming support and prayers." The married, 10-year veteran had a 3-year-old son and two daughters, ages 1 and 4.



-- Post From My iPhone

AAPO President Awarded Diplomate Credential

Dave Fair, President of the American Association of Police Officers has been awarded the Diplomate Credential during the Annual Training Seminar of the International Conference of Police Chaplains in Knoxville, Tennessee.

To qualify for the award a chaplain must have a minimum of 15 years chaplain experience as well as 150 hours of chaplain training, and made a significant contribution to police chaplaincy.


Fair has previously been awarded the Basic, Senior, and Master Certification presented by the ICPC. He is a former board member and committee chair for the group.

AAPO was a sponsor of the 36th Annual Conference and awarded a scholarship for an Alabama Chaplain to attend the meeting.

See information on the AAPO Chaplain Project at www.PoliceUSA.com.

Five N.J. Officers Shot in N.J.

A running shootout that erupted during a police stakeout ended Thursday morning with two armed robbery suspects dead and five officers wounded by gunfire, two of them critically.

Police said Hassan Shakur had been hiding a pump-action shotgun under a monk's robe when police approached him in the street at about 5:15 a.m. and he began firing.

The shootout ended when SWAT officers fought their way into a third-floor apartment where the suspects had taken cover about 6:45 a.m. The officers were met by shotgun blasts that ripped through the apartment building's walls and doors.

Residents of the complex said they awoke to the sounds of gunfire and police running down the halls.

Line of Duty Deaths Increase

Line-of-duty police officer deaths rose 20% during the first six months of 2009.

The topic was discussed among police chaplains during the 36th Annual International Conference of Police Chaplains Annual Training Seminar underway in Knoxville, Tenn.

AAPO is a sponsor of the event.


-- Post From My iPhone

ICPC Meets in Knoxville for Training

The 36th Annual International Conference of Police Chaplains Annual Training Conference was held this July in Knoxville, Tennessee.

American Association of Police Officers President, Chaplain Dave Fair, a longtime ICPC member was on hand for the event and manned the AAPO Chaplain Project display.

The Chaplain Project is a archive of interviews with renown Police Chaplains who share their wisdom for other Chaplains. The Chaplain Project can be seen at www.PoliceUSA.com.

Shown above right is Dr. Bill Bass of the University of Tennessee. Dr. Bass one of the conference presenters is a forensic anthropologist who is often see on FOX and CNN.

He started the famed "Body Farm" at the university as a research project.

Nation Celebrates Fourth Of July

Police keep watchful eyes as the Nation Celebrates the July 4th Holiday. Thousands of parades and other activities were planned nationwide as Americans remembered the birth of Our Nation.

All of us at the American Association of Police Officers wish officers nationwide a Happy and Safe July 4th Holiday. Thanks for the work you do in keeping our streets safe.

Blessings,

Chaplain Dave Fair

AAPO Studio

The American Association of Police Officers sports it's own studio for cameras and lighting.

The equipment is used to tape for the Police Chaplain Project, the Survivor Network, and other projects.

AAPO, CEO Phil LeConte is the creative mind behind the projects and productions.

Austin Police Equine Unit

The Austin, Texas Police Department has a 9 member Equine Unit that serves the community especially the downtown area.

Horses are excellant for crowd control and are a great public interest tool.

Shown here are two Equine Unit members at an Austin park.

They were on hand allowing the American Association of Police Officers to take photos for future use.

AAPO Boards Meet in Austin

The Board of Directors of the American Association of Police Officers and the Junior Police Academy Advisory Council met in Austin in June.

At left (in blue) Phil LeConte, AAPO, CEO explains the programs of the two groups to the Board and Council.

(second from left) Kelly LeConte who heads the JPA and other members look on.

Learn more about the AAPO and JPA at http://www.policeusa.com/.

Famed Bufallo Soldiers in Central Texas

The famed Buffalo Soldiers are a part of Texas Military History.

At left (l-r) CPT. Robert Spratt, TXSG-HQ, MSG William Reece, Buffalo Soldiers, Texas Army National Guard, Camp Mabry, and CH (MAJ) Dave Fair, TXSG-HQ, President American Association of Police Officers.

The group is standing in front of the Rufus F. Harden School in Brownwood,Texas during the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker. The school was the first African American School in central Texas founded in 1917.

A number of central Texas residents were on hand for the dedication, including several local officials.

Museum Guard Laid to Rest

A 39-year-old African American security guard at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington was shot and killed earlier this month while trying to defend against an 88-year-old white supremacist who walked in and opened fire.

Museum officials identified the dead guard as Stephen Tyrone Johns, a six-year veteran of the facility. He is being laid to rest today.

Photos: (l) Officer Johns (r) suspect Von Brunn.

"There are no words to express our grief and shock over these events. He served on the Museum's security staff for six years," read a statement from the Museum. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Officer Johns' family.

"We have made the decision to close the Museum tomorrow in honor of Officer Johns, and our flags will be flown at half mast in his memory."

At the White House, just blocks away from the museum, President Barack Obama said, "This outrageous act reminds us that we must remain vigilant against anti-Semitism and prejudice in all its forms. No American institution is more important to this effort than the Holocaust Museum, and no act of violence will diminish our determination to honor those who were lost by building a more peaceful and tolerant world."

BNSF Railroad Police in Texas

I was recently invited by the BNSF Railroad to take a three hour VIP train tour from Temple, Texas east and back. The train ride was a blast.

As American Association of Police Officers President, I'm always wanting to make a law enforcement connection. It didn't take me long.

Pictured to the left are two BSNF police officers both stationed in Texas. The 200 plus man force carry full peace officer commissions and have total police powers like any other agency or department. The officers told me in Texas their commissions are carried by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

It is interesting that everywhere I go, I meet men and women in law enforcement. All risking their lives to protect and serve.

So thanks to the BNSF Police for making sure we were safe and sound on our Texas railroad journey this June.

Let's all stay safe out there.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Fair Named to Chaplain Board

Chaplain Dave Fair, President of the American Association of Police Officers has been named to the Board of Directors of the Academy of Certified Chaplains. The organization is part of the American Psychotherapy Association.

" I am extremely humbled to be asked to serve in this position," Fair said, " I am honored to be asked to serve"

Fair is certified as a Master Chaplain by the organization (ACMC-III)

JPA Awards to Austin ISD Officers

A group of Austin (TX) Independent School District Police Officers along with their Police Chief Pat Fuller were awarded certificates of appreciation at a June Austin City Council meeting.

The police department was the first in the nation some 15 years ago to use the Junior Police Academy Program now used nationwide.

The JPA program is taught in schools by school resource officers and takes students through an age appropriate police academy to spur their interest in law enforcement careers and help them understand that decisions they make in school can effect their adult life.

AAPO congratulates all of the Austin ISD Officers.

AAPO President Serves 176th EN BDE

Chaplain Dave Fair, President of the American Association of Police Officers recently served as Chaplain for the 176th EN BDE during their annual training at Camp Bowie, Texas.

At left Chaplain Fair is shown (l) with the BDE P.A. during their stay.

Above right two Texas Army National Guard trucks in use during the training at Camp Bowie.

Some 350 soldiers were on the ground at the central Texas military installation.

The American Association of Police Officers salutes are those serving in our military.

Stay safe.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Line of Duty Deaths Continue

Last week five officers were killed in the line of duty across the nation. Some were shot and killed others died in vehicle crashes.



Those who have command authority please stress safety over and over again to your officers.

They must be reminded daily to be safe.

Let's use caution out there!

Chaplain Dave Fair


-- Post From My iPhone

AAPO is Now on PLAXO

You can now join the AAPO Officer Down Crisis Response PLAXO Group Site. Find us at http:/:odcr.plaxogroups.com.

PLAXO is a free site that allows you to store your contact details, photo, and other information. You can also form
contact and discussion groups such as ours. Join our site today.

Stay Safe,

Chaplain Dave Fair

Join AAPO President on MySpace

You can join me on MySpace at PoliceUSA. It's just another way to keep up with the activities of the American Association of Police Officers. Social networking has become a major way of communication in today's fast paced world. Be it Twitter, FaceBook, or now MySpace our friends can follow us. The MySpace area is: Law Enforcement.

Stay safe.

Chaplain Dave Fair
AAPO President

Memorial Day 2009

It's Memorial Day 2009. Let me urge you to take time to remember those men and women in the military who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom.

With all the picnics and events taking place on Memorial Day it's easy to forget that the real reason for this day is to remember those who died in service to our country.

Let's also remember the families that these brave men and women left behind. We will always be grateful to these families.

Today many law enforcement officers who are in the military are spending this Memorial Day overseas defending our freedom.

At the same time many more law enforcement officers are fighting the war here in the Homeland on our nations streets and highways.

Regards and blessings this day,

Chaplain Dave Fair

AAPO On Facebook

Would love to have you join me on Facebook. As you can see on the left you can find me at Dave Fair Appo. (Had to sign up that way to make it work. ) Of course AAPO is the American Association of Police Officers. Our website is www.PoliceUSA.com

Keep up with what I'm doing as President of the American Association of Police Officers.

Stay Safe !

Chaplain Dave Fair, PhD

President, AAPO

Follow PoliceUSA on Twitter

You can now follow PoliceUSA on Twitter. Go to your Twitter site or sign up at www.twitter.com. Simply enter PoliceUSA to follow us.

Keep up with what's happening new on PoliceUSA.com by following us on Twitter.

Be safe out there.

Chaplain Dave Fair

New Look for PoliceUSA.com

PoliceUSA.com has a great new look. Many new features have been added to our site. Additionally we have made the site much easier to navigate.

As President of the American Association of Police Officers I want to personally invite you to check us out.

You will find us as always at http://www.policeusa.com/.

I'm proud of the programs AAPO has. I'm excited about what we are doing nationwide. There is so much to take advantage of on our site. Please take a few minutes to look around.

I always welcome your suggestions. You can contact me at my personal email: chaplaindfair@gmail.com. Hope to hear from you.

Let's stay safe out there.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Police Gearing Up for Storm Season

Along the coast law enforcement officers as well as fire/rescue and EMS are gearing up for the hurricane season. The Pacific season is upon us with the Atlantic season to start soon.

2008 was a devastating year for Texas and Florida. I'm more familiar with Texas because I was deployed to four hurricanes. By far, Ike was the worst. Spending
a week on Galveston Island without power, sewer or water I saw first hand the dedication of law enforcement officers in protecting and serving their communities.

Sure hope we c an "dodge a bullet" this year. It would really be nice if all our first responders could get a welcome break from the storms. Fact is we have had several seasons without storms hitting Texas. But as I sit here watching the news on TV, those who forecast hurricanes are not very optimistic about us missing the "big one" again this year.

Regardless I know our nations first responders will be up for the task.

I'm honored to serve as a Police Chaplain as well as a Military Chaplain. As part of the Texas Military Forces, Chaplain, TXSG-HQ, Standing Joint Interagency Task Force (SJIATF-TX) we are tasked with support to civil authorities and to push forward at times even in advance of the storms.

I've seen first hand the dedication of law enforcement officers, who despite their own loses to storms work around the clock to rescue, protect, and serve. I'm proud to be among "America's Finest" our proud men and women of law enforcement.

Let's stay safe out there.

Chaplain Dave Fair, PhD, President
American Association of Police Officers

APPO President Up Up and Away !

At left American Association of Police Officer's President Chaplain Dave Fair standing in front of an Apache Longbow Helicopter.  At right Fair leaving a Huey after a flight over Camp Bowie, Texas. Fair is a Chaplain for the Military Forces of Texas, TXSG-HQ, Standing Joint Interagency Task Force. Both helicopters are part of the 21st Air Cav from Ft. Hood, Texas

NC Trooper Dies From 2007 Injuries

A North Carolina State Trooper has died from injuries he received when pinned against his patrol car in a 2007 incident.
Trooper Kyle Barber, a trooper since 1985 has died as the result of those injuries. He had undergone another in a long line of surgeries as a result of the 2007 incident.


Trooper Barber's family and his agency qualify for the AAPO Remembering Valor Program.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and agency.


Chaplain Dave Fair

APPO President in Military Exercise

Left: APPO President CH (MAJ) Dave Fair aboard a Vietnam Era Huey Helicopter at a recent military exercise in central Texas. Right: Apache Longbow from the 21st Cav. Ft Hood, Texas. Fair is a Major with the Texas Military Forces, TXSG-HQ, Chaplain. The flight followed Fair's briefing to the 21st Cav. concerning the Disaster Exercise underway at the time. The 21st was on a training mission, while the TXSG was involved in the Disaster Exercise. Both were at Camp Bowie, Texas

Police Memorial Week Closes But We Will Never Forget

At left items placed by family members at the Police Memorial Wall in Washington, DC marking the end of Police Memorial Week. The official week may have ended but we will never forget. Never forget the men and women and families who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Those who died in the line-of-duty. And the families, the friends, who remain.

The Memorial Wall with names of all of our fallen stands ever vigilant year around as a reminder.

ICPC To Hold ATS In Knoxville

The International Conference of Police Chaplains will host their Annual Training Seminar (ATS) July 13- 17 in Knoxville, Tenn.

The American Association of Police Officers is a proud sponsor of the event. Additionally we have awarded a scholarship allowing a Chaplain to attend the conference, that may not have been able to attend.

The APPO will have a booth at the event. APPO President Dave Fair, a longtime ICPC member who be manning the booth with information about the AAPO's Police Chaplain Project and the Survivor Network, both part of our Officer Down Crisis Response Program.

Additionally AAPO will be interviewing Chaplains for the Police Chaplain Project. If you are interested in being interviewed at the ATS contact Chaplain Dave Fair at chaplaindfair@gmail.com

Group Formed to Assist Officers Families

My associate John Cooley discovered this newspaper article. It's in the spirit of our Officer Down Crisis Response.
Maybe other agencies will do the same.

Let's stay safe.

Chaplain Dave Fair

West Virginia
Auxiliary would support Berkeley sheriff's office

By MATTHEW UMSTEADMay 13, 2009matthewu@herald-mail.com
MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — An organizational meeting will be held next month to establish an auxiliary to support the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department.

The meeting will be June 3 at 6 p.m. at the sheriff’s department’s offices at 802 Emmett Rousch Drive.
Tina Jones, whose husband is a corporal with the agency, is chairing the group’s founding with the backing of Sheriff Kenneth M. “Kenny” Lemaster Jr.

Jones expects the auxiliary to act as a support group for the officers, in good times and in bad.
“If there would be an officer that would be injured or sick, we would help the family with maybe some fundraisers and also support,” Jones said.

“We’re going to do ‘meet and greets’ ... with the other police departments because besides having a family at home, these guys hav­e a family here and they’re out there with each other, backing each other up and working with each other, so we’d like to get to know all the other departments as well.”

“It hit us hard when John Burkett was killed,” Lemaster said of the deputy’s death in a vehicle accident in 2001 while he was transporting a prisoner. “It really put a stress on the staff — not only planning for the funeral,” Lemaster said. “The community support that came in ... we just didn’t have the staff to do thank-you letters, receive the food, support the family and ... that made us pretty aware here of things that we needed.”

In addition to talking with Lemaster about forming a support group, the untimely passing of 30-year-old Martinsburg Police Department officer Roger E. “J.R.” Butcher only fueled her drive to start the organization, a first for the sheriff’s department.

“That really, I think, woke me up as far seeing what types of things you can do with the auxiliary,” Jones said. “When there’s a passing like that, it’s when you need to come together as a family and help each other.”

While only beginning to organize, Jones said the auxiliary kicked off volunteer support efforts this week in recognition of National Police Week (May 10-16) by bringing food to the department and Berkeley County Central Dispatch staff that was donated by area businesses and family of officers.

“You just wouldn’t believe the places that have (donated) — Arby’s (Foxcroft Avenue), Buffalo Wild Wings, Bob Evans, Cracker Barrel, Domino’s (Winchester Ave.), Duffy’s Tavern, Dunkin’ Donuts, Subway (Edwin Miller Boulevard) ... It’s just amazing,” Jones said. “I can’t say enough good for her to agree to take it on,” Lemaster said of Jones’ willingness to spearhead the effort.

More information about the auxiliary can be obtained by leaving a message for Jones at the Sheriff’s Department at 304-267-7000.

International Police Train in Peace Keeping

International Police are currently being trained by the U.S. Military in peace keeping as part of the combined Joint Task Force in Africa.

In a number of countries law enforcement officers are training in the latest techniques in keeping the peace, a common role for U.S. police officers.

Police and Military - Side by Side in Disaster

At left, a military medical unit of the Texas Military Forces, Texas State Guard during a disaster training exercise in central Texas in May.

In the exercise, local resources are depleted and state resources are called in. During the exercise local police and sheriff's officers work hand in hand with military and other agencies

ICPC Leadership History

At a recent International Conference of Police Chaplains Regional Training Seminar a group of longtime ICPC members who have held office posed for this photo. Pictured left to right are Chaplain Ken Ashlock, Chaplain for the Texas Rangers, Chaplain Keith Jenkins former Region 7 Regional Director, Chaplain Brain Hamlin, former Texas State Representative, Chaplain Jack Poe, former President of ICPC, and Chaplain Dave Fair, past ICPC Education Chair, and Board Member. The Chaplains pictured make up a century of Police Chaplain Experience.

AAPO Involved in Disaster Exercise

Brown County, Texas nestled in the heart of central Texas is the scene of a major disaster exercise in May involving law enforcement, fire service, EMS, and military.

Shown at left: disaster exercise planning. Foreground CPT. Robert Spratt, Military Forces of Texas, TXSG-HQ Deputy Commander for the exercise. Standing, Brownwood Fire Chief Del Albright, Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator.

AAPO President Dave Fair, is involved in the exercise providing Chaplain Services for the event and assisting the Texas Military Forces.

Law Enforcement plays a major role in disasters, providing safety and security for the area hit. Law enforcement works closely with the military who provides assistance to civil authorities.

AAPO Scholarship Awarded

AAPO is pleased to announce our Annual International Conference of Police Chaplains Annual Training Seminar Scholarship has been awarded to Chaplain Chuck Augustine.

The ICPC ATS for 2009 is set for July in Knoxville, Tennesee. In addition to the ATS award, AAPO also awards scholarships in each ICPC Region for Regional Training Seminars. The selection of the Chaplains who will receive the scholarships is made by the ICPC based on criteria including "need". Many Police

Chaplains are volunteer and must pay all their own expenses.

All of us at the American Association of Police Officers extends our congratulations to Chaplain Chuck Augustine.

We are honored to provide these scholarships to those men and women who care for "America's Finest". AAPO salutes the ICPC and their Destin, Florida staff for all of their efforts.

Let's be safe out there.

Chaplain Dave Fair

Police Memorial- Abilene, Texas

Recently I had the honor of attending a Law Enforcement Memorial Service in Abilene. Fourteen Texas Peace Officers lost their lives in the line-of-duty in 2008.

The event is part of the up coming National Police Week. Some 300 people were in attendance including four survivor families and a host of law officer from throughout the area.

Names of all 14 officers were read during the ceremony. Additionally the events surrounding their death were read including their End of Watch Time.

As peace officers I want to urge each of you to attend a Memorial Service this month. It is a time to honor our fallen. A time to reflect, and a time to remember.

Spend extra time with your family. Wear your vest, and be safe. Far too many officers have died already this year. Many in multiples by a single gunman.

From all of us at the American Association of Police Officers thank you for what you do.

In honor of those who gave the Ultimate Sacrifice.

Peace,

Chaplain Dave Fair