As a professional engineer, I manage a major defense program for a large electronics company. Although I’ve been interested in engineering for as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to do police work. The Reserve Officer program of the Los Angeles Police Department allows me to do both.

As a Reserve Officer, I add excitement, adventure and a special camaraderie to my life while deriving the satisfaction that comes from volunteering a much needed service to the city in which I live and, I hope, improving lives.

Balancing responsibilities to job, family and the LAPD is challenging but achievable. My family is solidly behind my voluntary commitment. As my children put it, “Daddy has two jobs.” And children in general are a big part of the reason I do this. Out there, in uniform and on patrol, you’re a kind of hero to kids, and they need all the heroes we can provide.

To others who may be considering the same commitment, I can promise you
will make a difference. Ways to contribute visibly to society may not always be readily apparent, but service as a Reserve Police Officer certainly affords such an opportunity. It’s not without risk but the rewards are great and so is the sense of adventure. And you can’t beat the training. It’s the best in the world and it helps immeasurably to give you the confidence to confront whatever life puts in your path.