Thank a Police Officer Day was celebrated on Saturday, September 19th this year. JPCA and Newtown Historical Society, in conjunction with Mount Olivet Cemetery, hosted a procession and memorial service for fallen NYPD officers Ale Swider and Robert Henry Holmes, who were profiled in the last Juniper Berry. Partnering with us for the event were Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32, the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club and the Police Benevolent Association of the NYPD. 

Amidst the sea of blue officers in attendance were outgoing 104th Precinct Commanding Officer DI Victoria Perry, Chief Jeff Maddrey of the Community Affairs Unit, Captain William Gallagher, Commanding Officer of the Central Park Precinct and Pat Lynch, President of the NYPD PBA. The NYPD Ceremonial Unit was led by Sgt. Steve Papp and the Chaplain for the event was Rev. Michael Lopez. There was a wonderful turnout by members of the community as well. The day was such a success that we plan to sponsor a celebration of the holiday every year. Photos by NYPD Photographer Kristina Fetkovich and JPCA member Richard Polgar.