Honor and Pride

We had the privilege last night of attending a graduation ceremony at the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Academy, where two young friends of our family have just completed their law enforcement training. Having had no previous exposure to such an event, we were amazed at how meaningful it turned out to be. First of all, I personally felt a little naked, lacking both a uniform and a sidearm. Once I got over that, however, the evening was truly inspiring. When an evening begins with an impressive color guard unit, the national anthem and an invocation which is actually a prayer to God, a patriotic conservative like me can rest assured that what follows will generally be worthwhile. It did not disappoint. What I witnessed was an extremely devoted group of trainers and administrators taking time to honor a class of young men and women who have spent 23 weeks preparing for an important, and often dangerous, career in law enforcement. Their pride, tradition and commitment were evident and offered us a fresh perspective on those who work to protect and serve us every day.

Upon reflection, I have come to realize that our law enforcement officers are some of the truly
unsung heroes of modern society. They got a little extra respect immediately following September 11, having lost many of their own in the World Trade Center, but we continue thank them far too rarely. In the past I have written at length about those who serve in the military, but last night reminded me that those who serve in law enforcement are our neighborhood military, helping to keep the streets safe for all of us. For that service, we all owe a significant debt of gratitude. The keynote speaker at last night’s commencement quoted some previous remarks made by Chief Justice Warren Berger at an FBI academy graduation which I felt were particularly poignant. I was unable to find the exact quotes on the internet, but take the liberty of paraphrasing them. The main point was that a peace officer lives every day upon the front line of the law. In a very real way our government, justice system, laws and national values intersect with citizens through those who serve in law enforcement. They must act on behalf of both the letter and heart of the law, having the unique privilege and responsibility to interpret and enforce that law and the will of people whom they serve. And sometimes this must even be done under fire. Every day we call upon them to make value judgments which affect their lives, the lives of others and the community at large. That is a great deal to ask of any individual. For this, I call upon all my fellow citizens to offer both their appreciation and gratitude.

Perhaps the heart of what I felt last night, and what I also wish to share with others, is best captured by the law enforcement code of ethics which the entire graduating class recited from memory at the close of the ceremony. I offer it below, along with a fond hope that all of us will endeavor to show the appropriate respect which our men and women in law enforcement deserve. So I close today with a heartfelt congratulations to Kyle, James and their entire class of highly trained graduates. We salute your honor and pride.

Code of Ethics
As a Law Enforcement Officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional Rights of all persons to liberty, equality, and justice.

I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all; maintain courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn, or ridicule; develop self-restraint; and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others. Honest in thought and deed in both my personal and official life, I will be exemplary in obeying the laws of the land and the regulations of my department. Whatever I see or hear of a confidential nature or that is confided to me in my official capacity will be kept ever secret unless revelation is necessary in the performance of my duty.

I will never act officiously or permit personal feelings, prejudices, animosities, or friendships to influence my decisions. With no compromise for crime and with relentless prosecution of criminals, I will enforce the law courteously and appropriately without fear or favor, malice, or violence and never accepting gratuities.

I recognize the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith, and I accept it as a public trust to be held so long as I am true to the ethics of law enforcement. I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession.... law enforcement.