This year will mark my 26th year as a police officer, but my career path in law enforcement actually began six years earlier. Thirty-two years ago, I took my first ride-along as a Police Explorer and the course of my life was set. At 15 years of age, I joined Law Enforcement Explorer Post 609 in Chesterfield, Virginia. Being a Law Enforcement Explorer provided me with valuable insight into my future career and a clear understanding of the profession.
Beyond insight, this program provided tangible life and job experience. While law enforcement skills taught in the Explorer Program are used for competitions, they provide a significant advantage in successfully navigating the rigorous demands of our police academy. The experience gained in Exploring fostered confidence and enhanced my ability to communicate with others: tools that are crucial for success in any endeavor.
Beyond the skills of my craft, Law Enforcement Exploring instilled in me a strong sense of duty and reinforced my core values of integrity, service, compassion, and courage. My Post advisors guided me as a young person and served as positive role models for me. The other members of my Explorer Post also provided a positive influence in my life and have become life-long friends and peers. Throughout my law enforcement career and in the various assignments within the department, this base has been invaluable.
Though I made law enforcement my profession, I believe the skills and support I received as an Explorer assured me success in whatever career field I chose. Exploring: Lessons for a Lifetime.
Are you a former Law Enforcement Explorer who has now gone on to a successful career in policing? If so, Discover Policing and the National Law Enforcement Exploring Alumni Association would like to hear from you! We are collecting and cataloging alumni success stories like this one to inspire a new generation of Explorers. Submit your story today.
Learn more about Law Enforcement Exploring and other opportunities for youth.
Learn more about the Chesterfield County Police Department, Virginia at: https://www.chesterfield.gov/941/Police