Page 8 - December 2019 FOP Magazine

My retirement took effect on March 22. On that date, which was my birthday, my livelihood as a Chi- cago Police Officer ended.
As the date approached, I began to question my future. Had I saved enough money to live the way that I wanted? Where would I live? Was I healthy enough? What about my health benefits, which are vital as you get older?
In my opinion, you are now cast off this job with- out your consent. Thanks for your service.
On Dec. 26, 1989, I along with 200 citizens of Chi- cago, entered the Chicago Police Academy. The days and years flew by, just like I was told. One day, you are a probationary police officer in Englewood and before you know it, your career is end- ing. Will the memories — good and bad — ever really leave you? They’re likely to be etched in your mind forever.
A lifetime of camaraderie that few will ever get to experience, and lifelong friendships established over many years. Were there regrets? Absolutely, but probably very few things I would change.
One of the biggest problems on this job is the promotional system. It is rife with meritless promotions and alleged cheating. Day after day, it became more apparent that it was not what you know, but who you know.
I once had a discussion with an alderman (who will remain nameless) who told me that “being a good cop and being promot- ed” had nothing in common. The sad part is that what he said was true. But he never had to knock on a door to inform a mother that her missing 16-year-old son was found under a porch and would
not be coming home.
To improve this department, all merit promotions should be
eliminated.
I became involved in the FOP Lodge 7 Union specifically be-
cause I believed there was a failure by our union officials to ad- dress the worst promotional system in the country. Unfortunate- ly, this system still exists.
Our attorney, Joe D’Alba, and I have submitted a brief to Judge Dow in reference to this matter and the consent decree. Whoever wins the next election needs to do several things, including:
• Become a voting bloc
• Educate our members
• Protect our legal defense rights • “Attack” our enemies
• Get our message out
• Stand together
Across the country, police officers have become the target of progressive (liberal) prosecutors. Their job is to reform the police department to conform to their ideology.
My greatest fear as a police officer — that the badge pinned to our chests with immense pride would mean absolutely nothing — has come to fruition. Unfortunately, this is now the truth.
The “silent majority” of this town stands behind its officers. Politicians know one thing — the power of the vote. The only way to make change is to force it ourselves.
It’s time we begin to act as one to make the necessary changes. Think about four more years with our current state’s attorney.
To all our members, have a happy and safe holiday.
First Vice President’s Report
Forcibly retired
PAT MURRAY
BRAVE POLICE & PUBLIC SAFETY WELLNESS CENTER 6323 N. AVONDALE AVE. #111B • CHICAGO, IL 60631
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847-778-9322
BRAVE POLICE & PUBLIC SAFETY WELLNESS CENTER
DR. ROBIN KROLL, PSY.D, BOARD CERTIFIED POLICE & PUBLIC SAFETY PSYCHOLOGIST
8 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ DECEMBER 2019