Page 8 - February 2020 FOP Magazine

During a battle, there are no agnostics in a fox- hole.
And as the artillery shells fall upon us from so many different directions, we need to come to- gether as one.
The progressives want this world and police departments to reflect their ideology. This has become more apparent with the rhetoric they are spewing. It is becoming more open and vicious
through the media and other outlets.
I grew up in the shadows of Comiskey Park, raised by par- ents from the greatest generation. In 1943, my corpsman fa- ther was assigned to a Marine battalion for the invasion of the Philippines. I can’t even imagine the horror he went through until the end of the war. He passed away at 48, well before his
time.
My father was well respected and coached Little League for
decades at Donovan Park. He taught me several life lessons, some that I still use to this day. One was to respect everyone and not judge people.
We are in an era where no one is safe from ridicule. Teachers and anyone else who holds any type of authority are on the
list. At the very top is the police officer, who is held to a higher standard than any other profession.
Unions need to come together to ensure that their mem- bers are treated fairly ⁠— be it a probationary, active or retired police officer. In order for all members to be treated fairly, the proper legislation must be passed. This is especially true for retirees on a fixed income.
There needs to be a better effort to get pro-police candi- dates elected.
I was born a Democrat, but that has changed in recent times. The new FOP administration has to continue to fight for members and change the anti-police rhetoric that has been growing in this country.
I read in the papers that there is a disconnect between the community and the police department. I truly don’t believe that at all. The problems we are facing today are because of the decisions made by local government.
Politicians understand one thing, and that is votes. We need to work together to ensure our futures for our families and provide them the best opportunity for success.
Stay safe, and if you need assistance, please call.
First Vice President’s Report
Foxx hole
PAT MURRAY
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8 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ FEBRUARY 2020