07/10/2026
A small star on a sleeve. Insignificant to most people but to those who know, it means a lot of things. 20 year ago today a tiny little town outside of my college let me be their police officer. And the story began. I left that tiny town and college to go police in a capital city where I would be immersed in policing and get a solid foundation that would carry me to where I am today. Opportunity would present itself to let me travel the world with Homeland Security before returning to my roots policing on the street. If you had asked me 20 years ago if in my career I would have influence in a technology improving those who police, or hell even make a SWAT team let alone have the honor of commanding one, I probably would have laughed at you. To those working on the first hash on their sleeve: Immerse yourself in policing. You get one shot at your legacy then you walk away. On this my 20th year I’m smarter, faster, stronger, and more qualified to do what I do than I have ever been. It’s because I had good mentors and friends who pushed me to be that way. I’m glad I get to feel that way because there’s a lot of star sleeved guys who are the opposite. That’s your choice to make. I don’t know how many more I’ve got but man this last 20 has been a ride and I can’t wait for some more.
