Peace Officer
The Peace Officer is the official publication of the Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #5, 11630 Caroline Road, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19154. Phone: (215) 629-3600 ~ Fax: (215) 6295736, www.fop5.org.
The Fraternal Order of Police is a Non-Profit Organization dedicated to a membership of 14,000 Active and Retired Law Enforcement Officers, their families and 7,000 Associate Members.
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PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
John Hoyt, Editor Chairman, Publications Committee
Lou Campione, Contributing Editor
CONTRIBUTING STAFF:
Special Thanks to our Photographers: Charlie Marsden, Jaci Downs
LODGE 5
Greetings FOP Family
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Roosevelt Poplar, President
In my last Peace Officer Article, I touched upon one of the most important things in our careers, and that was the contract (ACT111).
Just to clarify for the people who do not know how the process works with the proposals, we the FOP and the city send in proposals (Issues of Dispute) between the two parties. That gives us the basis to start the negotiations process. That does not mean we are not attempting to get the best benefits for the entire membership. What that means is we have opened the doors to start breaking down the priorities of the needs of the members and their families. Ninety-nine percent of the time, what you see on paper will be adjusted during the negotiation process from both sides. At the conclusion of the negotiations, the Neutral Arbitrator will make the final decision about what they think is fair for both parties. They (Neutral Arbitrator) will render a conclusion to both parties, with the ability to maintain jurisdiction over the contract for certain issues that may arise for clarification or implication for the life (Year/s) of the contract. This is a simple explanation.
I have personally been involved in the contract process since 2002 directly and indirectly under the administration under which I have served. I can say that we have come a long way, but we still have a way to go.
This is one of the most important contract years we have had in some time now. We are losing officers at an alarming rate, and we are not catching up to attrition or people not being interested in the job anymore. Yes, be alarmed that we are not in the best position in the city as we were just five years ago. You are being forced to work overtime, and the department thinks that is the solution. The only way that becomes a solution is that you can see the reward in your pension. So, if they would like to make that their solution, then there are ways to do that. It is called, give me my three highest earning years in my pension. Just an idea.
I would like to personally thank the officers that made it to the contract hearings to see firsthand what goes on at a hearing and have an opportunity to see how much work goes into preparing for the contract. As soon as one contract is completed, we are preparing for the next one.
In my 20 plus years at the FOP I have worked in a number of roles from Trustee, Vice President/Chief of Staff, Vice President of the Pennsylvania State FOP, and now the most challenging, President.
It is not easy pleasing everyone, but I do try my best to let every member that I work for know that you are the most important people to this organization. Without you, the membership, we would not be who we are, not only in
Philadelphia, but across this country. Philadelphia Lodge 5 is recognized as one of the most well-respected FOP’s throughout this Country. Since November of 2023 when I assumed the role as president, we have made a very conscience effort to shift the focus on the membership and their needs. We represent over 12,000 members with truly diverse needs, and we have accepted that challenge of fulfilling them as we go along.
Working around the clock is no stranger to us, we have done it for years and will continue to do so. The lodge is in the best financial state it has been in since I have been on the Board. Our revenue has grown over a million plus dollars since I took office with the decrease in membership. We have relationships with the Mayor, Police Commissioner and the Executive Staff, City Council, and numerous elected officials on the State and National levels.
As we all know in the city, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know, and we plan on taking advantage (Not Abusing) of something we have not had in years, and the relationships of the people that can make a difference in all our lives. That is part of the political aspect of this organization. Sometimes we are used as pawns in their world, but under my watch we will not be used, at the end of the game we will be calling out Checkmate!
While it is more apparent at this time of year, working for Survivors and their families is not just a goal but it is a duty that all of us here shoulder. None of you on the outside can know how difficult this is and how much it differs from family to family. Some families have
PHILADELPHIA
the necessary foundations that were built by our fallen heroes before their death and as such have the internal structure to continue to survive on their own. Other families are not so fortunate and collapse under the weight of the loss and it is here where we are most needed. People on the outside do not see what is done for these families by the staff here at the FOP, but I assure you, no stone is left unturned by us in our effort to help a family cope in this time of need. Rest assured, when I say we here at the FOP care for these families, I am not simply saying it is the staff here that cares for them, because when I say “we” here at the FOP, it includes all of you who support our Survivors programs.
In closing, collectively, the current administration has over 100 years of FOP experience serving our members. That speaks volume of leading this organization into the future.
Stay Safe!
Fraternally yours, Roosevelt Poplar
Survivor’s families luncheon at the Vie.
Advertisers Index
ATTORNEY’S
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Willig, Williams & Davidson......78
Hoffman, Sternberg, Karpf & Lynch ......7
Able Law Firm...........................106
AUTOMOTIVE
Sloane Honda...........................54
Dunphy Ford.............................34
Delaire Auto..............................99
Colonial Nissan.........................61
Northeast Express Car Wash.....109
Street Road Accessories............84
Bensalem Auto Body.................55
BANKS AND CREDIT UNIONS
Phila. Federal Credit Union........39 Police & Fire Federal Credit Union.........................57 BOOKS Girls Only..................................84 Imperfect Contrition.................107 Curve Ball.................................90
Doublin O’Dyssey......................91 Children of the Clan..................115 Insurrection..............................110
Devil’s Hour..............................53 Trojan Horse.............................108
Charles P. Elliott CPA.................100
Keven Hughes CPA....................95
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Brad Nyce Nationwide...............10
Valley Financial Group...............25
Americor...................................103
Morgan Stanley.........................110 Planning 4 Heroes.....................16
Financial Group of Phila............ICB
Cross Country Mortgage............56
FUNERAL HOMES/ CEMETERY
Archdiocese Cemetery..............22
Burns Funeral Home.................65
Givnish Funeral Homes.............60
HEALTH
Columbus Laser Vision..............49
Today’s Eyewear........................114
Academy Injury & Health Ctr.....38
Regional Orthopedic Assoc........29
CG Orthodontics.......................102
JAG Physical Theraphy ..................114
The Lafayette Redeemer Health73 Livengrin Foundation................64
Dr. Bruce Sloan..........................91
Personal Care Dentistry.............90 Harris Mulnick, DDS..................47
DOG Orthodontics....................19
HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING
Sperduto Masonry....................11
Mayfair Fence...........................13
Nicklous Brothers......................98
Gallagher Brothers....................101
Elite Water Damage Rest...........31
Ernest Brock & Co.....................97
Hosesle Lawn Service................106
JEWELERS
Somerton Jewelers.................88-89
Homestar Realty........................104
Home Star - Anthony Samarco..101
Advertisers not sanctioned by FOP unless noted.
ROOSEVELT L. POPLAR, JR.
President
Vice Presidents
JOHN McGRODY
NICHOLAS DeNOFA
STEVEN J. WEILER
JOHN McLAUGHLIN
Recording Secretary JOHN HOYT
Financial Secretary
MICHAEL TRASK
Treasurer
WILLIE SIERRA
Trustees
YVETTE CLARK
JAMES CROWN
MYRNA RIVERA
PETER SWERYDA
SCOTT R. BRADLEY
Conductor
SHARON JONAS
Guards
JOSE DONES
ASHLEY D. HOGGARD
Chaplain
LOU CAMPIONE
In Memorium, JOE CELLA
Letters to the President . . .
Hello President Roosevelt Poplar,
My name is Sharon Ferguson-Quick. My father, Stafford W. Ferguson Jr. served as a Philadelphia police officer from March 1,1965 - March 1,1985, Badge number 7502. He passed recently, November 26,2024. As you can imagine this is a difficult time for my brother and myself, his two surviving children and our family. I'm writing to you regarding the help we received from the Fraternal Order of Police Philadelphia Lodge 5, during this time and to say thank you.
Lou Campione was the second person I spoke to as I began the journey of taking care of my father's passing. Mr. Campione, I believe it is Captain he didn't say at the time, led me gently through this early stage. He provided information I was wondering how I would get, such as daddy's service dates and verification of what we believed was daddy's badge number. We had that information at the house but having Lou Campione give it to me in his calm, confident manner was a gift I will always appreciate. He may not even realize it, but that gift he gave me also lifted my brother when I shared the conversation with him. Lou Campione’s sympathetic voice while I cried through part of our conversation was a blessing for me. He explained the next steps and provided phone numbers, including his cell along with the office number I had reached him on.
My father told me once that being a policeman was a childhood dream. His serving as a Philadelphia Police Officer was a point of pride for him and our family. That pride came back so strongly when the two uniform officers came to the service to bring my brother and I, daddy's policeman's Bible. It had been many years since we had seen daddy in uniform. But all the images and pride of it sprang up from Inside so strongly seeing them there. I did not get the officer's name at the time, please say thank you to them from me, my brother, my dad's grandsons, great grandsons, granddaughter and sister also. As a final request, would you also thank Andrea for all her help and her efficiency. We would have never sorted out the insurance policy information without her.
Sincerely,
Sharon Ferguson-Quick Kapolei, HI
Letters to the President . . .
Brothers and Sisters:
On Friday, August 13, 2021, while sitting on my patio enjoying retirement, I learned that I had been indicted for two counts of perjury and two counts of false swearing for transcribing a defendant’s statement in a rape/murder case which had occurred over 30 years ago. My personal involvement in this horrific murder was to transcribe a confession which another detective took, It was perhaps an hour and a half in my 47-year career in law enforcement and that was my only involvement during the investigation.
To make a very long story short, the District Attorney’s office went behind the scenes to use “witness intimidation” to skirt a judicial order that granted a preliminary hearing. This was an outrageous accusation; however, it worked.
On March 17,2025, a jury was impaneled to hear the case. After a 10-day trial, the jury acquitted me of all charges. This is the third legal proceeding that found that the statement was voluntarily given after the defendant was informed of his constitutional rights.
The reason for telling you this is that I want to thank you all, every member of the FOP, for your 100% support which f received during this almost 4-year ordeal. From the day I turned myself in to Northeast Detectives, the FOP was there. In fact, they got there before I did.
They assured that the news media never got their pound of flesh that day, which they surely wanted. And everyone from the uniform officers to
the high-ranking police officials treated me like family.
The FOP continued their support for four years of hell, including but not limited to, retaining the top criminal defense office in the city, McMonagle, Perri, McHugh, Mischa and Davis Law Offices. There is no better!
Special thanks to former President John McNesby and to our current President Roosevelt Poplar for their unwavering support. President Poplar came to the trial on several occasions reaffirming that the FOP had my back and would always have my back. Unless you’re in that situation, you can’t imagine what that support means. Much love to you all.
Marty Devlin
Proud Member of the Fraternal Order of Police
ABINGTON TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
Dear President Poplar,
I want to express my gratitude for your generous donation to our upcoming Open House, scheduled for Saturday, May 10,2025. Your support plays a vital role in making this event a success. If your schedule allows, we would love for you to stop by and enjoy the performance by the Philadelphia Police and Fire Pipes and Drums.
Your donation and support mean a great deal to us! Thank you once again!
Sincerely,
Patrick Molloy Chief of Police
Jeff Sperduto Owner
Legislative and Political Updates
Vice President’s Report
by Nick DeNofa, Chief of Staff
Over the last 18 months, we have worked extremely hard to build out and implement changes to directly benefit our members, now and for the future. We are a large, complex organization. Under President Poplar, he has made it a priority to make improvements that will make our organization run more efficiently. One of our top priorities was changing our internal and external communications.
We started with a six-month project of rebranding and designing three new websites for our three different brands and assets- FOP Lodge 5, Heroes Ballroom, and 7C Lounge. Our focus for this project was to make our websites easy to use and navigate and to access necessary information quickly and easily for our members. The FOP Lodge 5 website has become a resource hub for our members to get updates every day. Our Heroes Ballroom and 7C Lounge websites have been rebranded with a balance of marketing to our members in the general public. We have also added many additional elements to our website including the ability to update your contact information quickly when you move etc. and make an online donation to our survivors’ fund or college scholarship fund.
President Poplar has made it a priority to engage with our members and ensure them that we are always working for them on the big things and little things that affect their lives every day. We have also upgraded how we communicate with our members so we can easily
text and email with updates each week. We want to keep our members engaged and this is the best way to do it.
We also successfully completed our first member survey online with over 2600 members responding and providing insights and ideas that have informed our current contract negotiations.
Team Poplar has made it a priority to always have a presence at every event possible to show support for our members and our causes. We have had successful events such as the Polar Plunge, Survivors’ Luncheon, Scholarship Bag Bingo Benefit and our recent Annual Survivors’ Benefit. We have raised a lot of money for a lot of great causes, and we will continue to strive to reach new goals with each event.
All of these accomplishments do not just happen. Experience matters, especially when you are dealing with a lot of coordination and moving parts. Team Poplar has worked hard towards these successes and will continue to build upon them each year. Please reach out if you need anything at all. We are always working for you and will always have your back.
Stay Safe, Nick DeNofa
FOP LODGE 5
Recording Secretary’s Message
by John Hoyt
Returning from a week in Washington, D.C. for National Police Week, I find myself reflecting on the significance of this year’s events. Having attended for many years, this time was particularly impactful. As both your Recording Secretary and National 2nd Vice President, I was kept busy, but it was a true honor to represent you and our union.
The week began with a meeting alongside Pam Bondi, the United States Attorney General, FBI Director Kash Patel, and other federal law enforcement leaders. The focus of the discussion was their unwavering commitment to supporting local law enforcement. They emphasized their dedication to ensuring that we in Philadelphia receive the resources necessary to police effectively — through funding, partnerships, and, perhaps most importantly, public support.
Later, I had the privilege of welcoming our runners as they completed their journey to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Every year, hundreds of officers run from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., in a powerful demonstration of support for our fallen. Seeing their dedication firsthand was both moving and inspiring.
That evening, I attended the COPS (Concerns of Police Survivors) Gala, an event dedicated to honoring the survivors and hearing their powerful stories. The strength and resilience of these individuals never cease to amaze me, as they continue to carry on in the face of such profound loss.
On Thursday, May 15th, the National Police Memorial was held on the grounds of the United States Capitol. As I have said before, presenting the Supreme Sacrifice Medal of Honor to our
survivors is one of the greatest honors of my life. This year, we recognized 232 brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. While the responsibility of presenting these medals is emotionally taxing, I consider myself privileged to be a part of such a solemn and meaningful ceremony.
Among those I presented the medal to was the family of one of our own — Philadelphia Police Officer Jaime Roman. Seeing his family there was a powerful reminder of the incredible strength and grace demonstrated by those left behind. Despite their unimaginable grief, they remained calm, compassionate, and remarkably strong — qualities that Officer Roman himself was known for. It was a moment I will never forget.
National Police Week serves as a time to remember, to honor, and to stand united as a law enforcement family. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to represent you and to stand in solidarity with the families and colleagues of our fallen heroes.
In the context of this solemn week, it is more important than ever to recognize the significance of strong, consistent leadership within our union. Preserving a union board that has consistently delivered annual raises and superior medical benefits is not just about maintaining the status quo — it is a strategic move to protect and advance the interests of all law enforcement officers.
First and foremost, the board’s continued success in securing annual raises is a testament to their negotiating power and commitment to fair compensation. As Philadelphia Police Officers you face extraordinary risks and challenges
daily and deserve to be compensated accordingly. Under the current leadership, we have seen consistent and tangible financial gains that not only acknowledge our dedication and sacrifice but also help to retain experienced officers and attract new talent. These raises are not just numbers on a paycheck; they represent respect for the difficult work you do every day.
Equally important is the board’s proven track record in obtaining superior medical benefits. Policing is a demanding profession, both physically and mentally. Access to comprehensive healthcare is not a luxury — it is a necessity. The current board has secured exceptional medical coverage that provides critical support for officers and their families. Changing leadership now could jeopardize these hard-won benefits and place our health and well-being at risk.
Moreover, continuity in leadership means maintaining the strong, established relation-
ships with city officials and other stakeholders that have been carefully cultivated over the years. The current board has spent years building these connections, gaining leverage, and positioning our union to negotiate effectively. Having inexperienced leadership could undermine those relationships, weakening our bargaining power and potentially undoing years of progress.
In conclusion, the choice is clear: proven leadership is the best way to safeguard the financial stability, health security, and professional respect that we have fought to achieve. Let’s not gamble with our future. Let’s stand together and keep a strong, experienced, and effective board in place.
Fraternally submitted,
John Hoyt
Recording Secretary
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Digging
FOP LODGE 5
Vice President’s Message
By John McGrody
CONTRACT TIME
It’s contract time!! It is what we do here at the FOP. There is nothing else that matters as much as the contract. We prepare for this Act 111 process knowing that there is not enough money in the world to adequately compensate you for the almost impossible work you do.
We have already completed several hearings for the term that expires June 30th. We completed our opening and several days of testimony. We put on some powerful testimony in our opening with the focus being on the sacrifices that you and your families make as you work in the most demanding job in the world. We had powerful testimony from our members on trauma, work-life balance, residency, the increased cost of real estate and the difficulties you face in dealing with crime and other traumatic incidents. The testimony to the arbitration panel from our folks was honest, direct and focused.
In the second phase of hearings, we will be dealing with the more traditional labor issues of compensation/wages, pensions, healthcare and shift schedules. In a slight detour from previous contracts, Roosevelt Poplar wanted the focus placed on the members themselves and not on the FOP as a powerful labor organization. We sought to more accurately gauge the concerns, wants and needs of the membership. Accordingly, we undertook the first ever Lodge 5 electronic contract survey. Surveys generally have participation rates of 25-30%. The response to the contract survey was excellent with participation rates in excess of 60%. We took these survey results and built our contract presentation around it. In fact, we selected comments from the survey and requested those folks to testify at the contract talks. They did so and we had great days of testimony from our members on the stress and trauma that you face on the streets, a better work-life balance for you and the need to have more support from PPD
leadership.
As is always the case at contract time, rumors abound. If you hear a rumor or someone tells you “I know what we are getting”, that is a false statement. When we know – you will know. The contract is a process that we go through pursuant to state public sector bargaining law. This contract is not our first rodeo. We know how to put on the case, we know how to poke holes in the city’s arguments, we know how to pierce the city’s contentions that they can’t afford the contract. Since the Pandemic and the Defund the Police craziness, we have been able to deliver 17.5% wage increases in the last 5 years. In fact, we were able to secure for you a 5% raise last year by negotiating a contract extension. This took place in the same year that Parental Leave was increased to 8 weeks of paid leave and Thanksgiving Friday was added as a paid holiday.
Again - don’t believe the rumors. When We Know - YOU Will Know.
Your FOP team is comprised of some very seasoned labor relations experts. Roosevelt Poplar brings the experience of serving as our Lodge 5 Vice President and several terms as the Pa State FOP Vice-President into his role as FOP President. We also have John Hoyt serving as our current National FOP Vice-President and Yvette Clark currently serving as the elected Pa State Vice-President. They both do so in addition to serving you on our Lodge 5 Executive Board. Steve Weiler previously served as the FOP National Vice-President. Steve is still a valued member of our team but we’ll be stepping down from his Vice President duties and assuming a lesser role going forward. This gives our membership the benefit of exposure to the current trends in police labor relations throughout the state and the nation.
The contract is obviously the most important thing we do. It is the reason that Lodge 5 exists.
However, our team does much more. We file several hundred grievances a year. We also represent members at over 100 labor arbitrations per year. We represent members in excess of 300 PBI proceedings per year. We stand alongside our members at district level interviews around 20 times a month. We handle 10-15 injuries on duty per week along with about 10-15 Heart & Lung arbitrations a month. We also field 500 phone calls, emails and walk-ins per month from members with a variety of inquiries.
We are also alongside our members and their families when they need us the most. We have responded to the scene of hundreds of Officer Involved Shootings and we respond to both the scene and the interview room. We also accompany our members when the PPD decides to terminate them and take away their livelihood. Unfortunately, we have done this in excess of 150 times.
We are also there in the darkest hours when we lose a brother or sister in the line of duty.
We always strive to help and assist our retirees. Our Lodge 5 membership was recently very instrumental in the passage of the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset law that was signed into law this past January. For far too long, PPD retirees suffered by the reduction of earned social security benefits simply because you wore the uniform of a Philly cop during your working life. A broad coalition of public sector unions came together to eliminate this decades old reduction in social security benefits. When we asked our members to contact their federal legislators, the response was overwhelming from both our active members and retirees. Our folks phoned, emailed and visited their Congresspersons and Senators. Our members are reporting increases in monthly social security earnings along with significant retroactive lump sum payments.
We are also working with the State FOP in advocating for a COLA bill that is currently making its way through the Pennsylvania Legislature. When the time comes, we will be requesting our membership to call upon the state legislators to get the COLA bill across the finish line and signed into law. When he was
PHILADELPHIA
elected President, one of the first things Roosevelt Poplar focused on was increasing the medical reimbursement for retirees. We were able to sharpen our pencils and squeeze some more money out of the retiree trust increasing the yearly medical reimbursement to 550 dollars.
I have been your elected Vice-President for 17 years. Truth be told, it wasn’t my goal to be here this long. My initial plan was to serve a term or two and move on to practice law full time. Fate has a funny way of intervening. We quickly discovered that having a cop who is also a lawyer on hand is a good thing. I also serve as legal counsel to both the active Legal Trust and the Retiree Legal Trust. I’m also trained as a Labor Arbitrator and I speak at Labor Relations Seminars across the country and teach some labor relations courses locally for public safety professionals.
In the next few years, I’m preparing for retirement from the PPD and the FOP. I hope that I can leave the FOP better than I found it. With the team we have assembled here, please rest assured that your FOP is in good hands going forward.
Like me, I’m sure that you heard a lot of accusations bandied about regarding what we do here at the FOP. I would ask that you disregard the noise and focus on the results we have shown in delivering for our membership across a wide spectrum. In my humble opinion, you should seek FOP leadership that has shown they can deliver for the membership. Our FOP Executive Board positions are for professionals who represent the interests of the entire membership. It should not be a landing pad for those who seek a cushy retirement gig.
Recently, the St Michael the Archangel Ministry Program has resumed the monthly mass remembering our fallen members. This mass is held on Wednesday night at 6pm at St. Matthew Church on Cottman Avenue. The program needs our support so please mark your calendars for the following Wednesdays: 5/21, 6/18, 7/16, 8/20, 9/17 and 10/15.
Above all – Pray, Hope and Don’t Worry……
We pledge that if any active or retired police o cer is killed in the line of duty, we will reimburse all pre-arrangements made by that o cer and/or family. We are also extending these exclusive savings to all police o cers’ immediate family members. Talk with one of our family service counselors today to understand how the impact of planning ahead protects your loved ones.
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
All Saints Cemetery
All Souls Cemetery
Calvary Cemetery
Holy Cross Cemetery
Holy Sepulchre Cemetery
Resurrection Cemetery
Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery
St. John Neumann Cemetery
Pennsylvania Locations
George Washington Memorial Park
Hillside Cemetery
Riverside Cemetery
Rolling Green Memorial Park Sunset Memorial Park
New Jersey Locations
Arlington Park Cemetery
Bethel Memorial Park
Locustwood
FOP LODGE 5
Vice President’s Report
by Steve Weiler, Vice President
Labor and Fund Raising as an FOP Vice President, as my personal life evolves
As many of you know, I've always been committed to giving my absolute best in everything I do, and my time here at the lodge is no exception. Giving 100% is the only way I know how to operate.
Even in my part-time role, I remain available to our members around the clock, taking calls on both my desk and cell phones. I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue serving you. My background in labor relations and interviews has also allowed me to share valuable insights with potential board members, ensuring a smooth transition when my term at the lodge concludes.
I'm also proud of our ongoing efforts to support the Survivors Fund through various charitable events. Our recent Polar Plunge in Wildwood was another great success, and
we're moving next year's event to February 28, 2026, to make it even better.
This weekend, I look forward to supporting our Survivor's event at the Hall and ensuring everything runs smoothly for attendees and volunteers alike. Additionally, the Ben to the Shore Bike Ride remains a popular and meaningful way to support our Survivor's Fund and honor our fallen heroes.
Finally, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your support and friendship over the years. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever need assistance.
Stay safe out there!
Steven Weiler Vice President , FOP Lodge 5
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Vice President
by John McLaughlin
I was elected one of the Vice President's here at the FOP 2 years ago. It has truly been an honor to represent the members of the best Police Department in the world. Previous to my election as V.P., I have served as an Executive Board member since 2010, first as a Guard and then as your Trustee. The last two years have opened my eyes to what it takes on a daily basis to be directly involved with representing and helping our members. As Vice President, it is my responsibility to make sure that the city is abiding by the terms of our collective bargaining agreement by adhering to the contract and ensuring your terms and conditions of employment are safeguarded. More recently, I have unfortunately met our members as they are being disciplined, terminated, having pay issues or having personal or family problems. Although it can be challenging to navigate through the many issues that our members are challenged with, I am 100% devoted to doing the best job that I can for every active member or retiree. Often times, a day here at the FOP is jumping from one crisis to another, much like our members on the streets.
Being devoted, dedicated and passionate is a theme that we follow here at the FOP and it's the reason that our Executive Board has been so successful. The members of our board along with some of our past board members have been able to achieve so much for our members. Some of the highlights of our team accomplishments have been competitive wage increases, stress differential,
FOP LODGE 5
longevity pay, improved pensions and healthcare, including D.R.O.P extensions, expanding on health and welfare, recruitment, and community outreach. This team and our members were very instrumental in the nationwide effort to overturn the Social Security Windfall Elimination Provision. Shortly after I first came on board 15 years ago, the FOP broke open the restrictive residency rule that generations of FOP leadership attempted to eliminate. We are currently at the bargaining table working diligently in the Act 111 interest arbitration proceedings to deliver a contract. With the experience of this team and the past successes, I am confident that we will deliver a fair and prosperous contract for our overworked and underappreciated members. You and our families deserve no less.
Delivering successful results is not something that can be achieved without the many knowledgeable people that currently work on this FOP Board. The members of the current FOP administration have a combined 300 + years of working in the labor relations field. Whether it's negotiating contracts, legal issues, discipline, insurance, departmental policy, injuries, pensions, retirement, grievances, arbitration, or medical issues, this administration knows how to handle every challenge. Our team has an outstanding record for resolving all the issues that our members are faced with. Our board has always been up to the challenge of defending our members' salaries, benefits, pensions, and medical coverage.
We have produced some of the best contracts in the country and have protected our members from losing any benefits that they have earned. Helping our members and protecting their rights is and always will be, our greatest concern.
Most of the time when you ask our members why they became a Police Officer we all usually have the same response, I want to help people. That answer is the same for all the members of our Executive Board and we all want to help our brothers and sisters in blue. It is important for our team that every member of the FOP be treated with the dignity and fairness they deserve. All our board members have walked the same walk that you do every day, and we know how difficult the job is that you are being asked to do for this city. The reason I became so involved in this union is because I knew the challenges that you are faced with, and I wanted to help make those challenges easier.
I didn't just walk in off the street and begin as a Vice President. I started volunteering at different union events, and along the way I asked to participate on different committees and events. It is here that I learned the inner workings and complexities of the FOP as a union. During this time, I was fortunate to attend the Harvard University Trade Union Leadership Program . After having years of experience and knowledge I was asked to be a board member and started to get more involved. In 2010 I was elected to be a Guard and later was asked to move into the position of Trustee. I served on the Executive Board for 13 years before I moved into the Vice President position.
Even with years of experience as a union official, it is still difficult to be part of the
PHILADELPHIA
core group that effectively runs the day-today operations here. It takes years of experience and knowledge to be able to come into the union an perform at the level that our members expect and deserve. There are some people who may think that it is easy to just walk into the Lodge and continue to run this organization without any experience or knowledge. That would be equivalent to showing up on the first day at the Police Academy, the department handing you all your equipment and sending you out on the street without any training.
Part of our mission as a team here is to position our FOP for future success. In the coming years, many of our seasoned experts here will be transitioning into retirement. We need to think long and hard about succession and direction of the union going forward . So, to those who wish to be a bigger part of this union, my advice to you is to start getting involved, learn what it takes to run the union, then work your way up to the position to be on the Executive Board. Our members deserve to have the best, most knowledgeable, and experienced board members working for them. Their future wages, benefits, and pensions will be at stake if an inexperienced team is involved in your contract negotiations.
The last inexperienced team that got elected here sold our members out for their own benefit. A majority of that Board rightfully ended up in prison, let's never repeat that cycle. As a union, we couldn't in 30 years of effort undo the damage caused by that betrayal of the membership.
Please get involved, it is your FOP and your future. Above all, please stay safe.
FOP LODGE 5
Treasurer’s Report
By Willie Sierra
Cost of Living Adjustment
It sounds like the Pennsylvania State Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) is making significant strides in advocating for our retirees with the introduction of House Bill 1289. This bill, while referred to as a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), hopefully becomes a well-deserved Post Retirement Adjustment if approved. According to the bill’s memo, it highlights the need for an increase in funds to better align with the economic realities faced by retirees, especially given that the last COLA was in 2002.
It is commendable that State Representative Steven Malagari is championing this cause, at the direction set forth by the PA State FOP and Lodge 5. It is also great to see support for such an essential initiative that recognizes the sacrifices made by police officers. The proposed pension increases will be based on years of service and will provide much-needed relief to retirees, particularly considering rising inflation.
If approved, House Bill 1289 will authorize the monthly amount of your pension to increase as follows:
•$250 a month, if on January 1, 2026, retired at least 10 years but less than 15 years.
•$375 a month, if on January 1, 2026, retired at least 15 years but less than 20 years.
•$500 a month, if on January 1, 2026, retired at least 20 years or more.
Social Security Fairness Act
Additionally, due to the recent changes of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Offset Provision (GPO) with the Social Security Fairness Act, it reflects the ongoing concerns about how changes in legislation and policy impact members. I encourage everyone to create an online account with the Social Security Administration (SSA) at https://www.ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Maintaining updated personal information, whether it is with SSA, the PPD, the Pension Board, and / or FOP Lodge 5 will be crucial to avoiding any issues with future payments and communications.
Pension Fund
To date, even with the past volatility of the stock markets due to tariffs instituted by the current Federal Government administration, our pension fund has a healthy 9.08 billion in assets and Deferred Compensation has 2.05 billion in assets. However, it appears even better days are on the horizon.
As summer approaches, it is a wonderful reminder for everyone to take time off for personal well-being and safety. Wishing all members a safe and enjoyable summer! STAY SAFE!
Best Regards, Willie
Sierra
Past President
by John McNesby
In a couple of months, a decision will be made about the future of Lodge 5, and the team elected will be charged with representing officers over the next 3 years.
When I retired, I decided that the best person to fill the role of President was my Chief of Staff, Vice President, Roosevelt Poplar. “Pop” as I often called him, beat me in the office daily and was the last to leave every day. His dedication to the FOP and its members was key to keeping “the wheels turning” so the FOP operated smooth and efficient. This is important because of the work which needed to be done daily to ensure the level of representation which the members deserved.
In the last 15 years the FOP has been operated (and had to be operated) as a business. Close to 120 million dollars a year flows through the FOP. With the organization growing and the success of the catering, lounge, and fundraisers, it now employees over one hundred individuals, both full and part-time. All the daily tasks, personnel, scheduling, repairs, and problems WERE MANAGED AND FIXED BY ROOSEVELT (POP).
Besides this, Roosevelt was often by my side during heated battles with the city fighting for your wages, benefits, and pensions as well as the daily nonsense the city tossed at us. As you know we were very successful with almost 60 percent wage increases and main-
FOP LODGE 5
tained what I believe to be the best medical in the country with zero payroll deduction. We fended off assaults on our pension and we gained residency, which was so important to the membership, as well as many other issues which were improved.
You will hear from people who are going to tell you they can do it better. Look at these individuals and ask yourself what kind of experience they have. Also do you really want to trust your families benefit packages and future to those who are “learning on the fly?”
This would be a dream come true for the city leaders.
THIS IS NO TIME FOR ON-THE-JOB TRAINING.
For all these reasons and more I ASK YOU TO SUPPORT ROOSEVELT POPLAR AND HIS TEAM to lead us into the future in this election.
He is a true leader and a true friend.
Stay safe.
John McNesby
Fraternal Order of Police
Philadelphia Lodge 5
2025 GENERAL ELECTION OF OFFICERS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025
IMPORTANT ELECTION INFORMATION
F.O.P. 2025 ELECTION COMMITTEE
Thomas Rola, Chair Margaret McGrory, Co-Chair trola719@gmail.com
Election Day/Date: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025
YOU MUST BE A FULL DUES PAYING MEMBER IN GOOD-STANDING WITH LODGE #5 IN ORDER TO VOTE. (Please read the section on “Voting Requirements” !!!!)
Per Article X, Section 11: Ten (10) Meetings are to be attained by: June 24, 2025
2025 ELECTION GUIDELINES
The following information is relative to the 2025 General Election of Officers (Executive Board Members), Lodge #5 Delegates, Pension Directors, Pension Director Regulation #17 and Pension Director Regulation #32. Please read each section in its entirety!!
This Election will be conducted via mail in ballots, per the By-Law change dated: September 21, 2021
If you are UNSURE IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO VOTE, please contact Andrea Mruk at Lodge #5 Headquarters during normal business hours - 215-629-3612.
VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
An Active Member in good-standing with Lodge #5 is eligible to vote unless back dues are owed to the Lodge. All back dues owed MUST BE PAID IN FULL BY FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025 in order to vote in the Election.
If you are more than 90 days delinquent in dues payments to the F.O.P. because of a LEAVE-OF-ABSENCE, YOU ARE NOT CONSIDERED A MEMBER IN GOOD-STANDING WITH LODGE #5 AND ARE INELIGIBLE TO VOTE IN THE F.O.P. GENERAL ELECTION.
YOU ARE NOT A MEMBER IN GOOD-STANDING if you were off City Payroll, paid NO dues to the F.O.P., returned to employment, and began to have dues automatically deducted. You still have an outstanding balance to the Lodge which must be paid. Therefore, you will be ineligible to vote.
PHILADELPHIA LODGE 5
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
2025 ELECTION COMMITTEE
Thomas Rola, Chair Margaret McGrory, Co-Chair 11630 Caroline Road, Philadelphia PA 19154
215-629-3600
F.O.P. LODGE #5 GENERAL ELECTION OF OFFICERS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025
TUESDAY, June 24, 2025 ~ This is the last date to attain your 10 required meetings of Lodge #5 in order to run for elective office.
Per Article X, Section 11: Ten (10) Meetings are to be attained by June 24, 2025.
Beginning Tuesday, JULY 1, 2025…..Distribution of the NOMINATING PETITIONS, at Lodge Headquarters, will commence for the OFFICE OF PRESIDENT & BOARD MEMBERS.
Nominating Petitions for President requires 250 signatures of members in good-standing
Nominating Petitions for all other Board Member positions require 100 signatures of members in good-standing
Distribution of Signature Cards for Pension Director, Pension Director Reg #17 & Pension Director Reg #32
Distribution of Signature Cards for Delegate position
ALL candidates for ANY position must appear in person
ALL Petition signatures WILL BE VERIFIED
Petitions and Signature Cards will be available only through an Election Committee Member Ending TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2025……
Nominating Petitions must be returned to the Election Committee by 8:00PM on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 – there will be No exceptions The Election Committee Members will be available on the following DATES and TIMES ONLY:
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
July 1, 2025 12pm x 8pm
July 2, 2025 3pm x 8pm
July 3, 2025 3pm x 8pm
July 4, 2025
Saturday July 5, 2025 10am x 2pm
Sunday July 6, 2025
Monday July 7, 2025 3pm x 8pm
Tuesday July 8, 2025 12pm x 8pm
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
July 9, 2025 3pm x 8pm
July 10, 2025 3pm x 8pm
July 11, 2025 3pm x 8pm
Saturday July 12, 2025 10am x 2pm
Sunday July 13, 2025 Not available
Monday
July 14, 2025 3pm x 8pm
Tuesday July15, 2025 2pm x 8pm
Wednesday July 16, 2022 (Pick Position) 10AM
July 16, 2025 (Pick Position)
Drawings for Ballot positions will take place at Lodge Headquarters on JULY 16, 2025 at 10AM A NOTE ABOUT VOTING AND PURSUING AN ELECTED POSITION:
You must be a Full Dues Paying Member in good-standing with Lodge #5 for one year prior in order to pursue an Officer position – this means owing NO back dues. All back dues owed MUST BE PAID IN FULL BY Friday, June 27, 2025 in order to vote in the Election.
If you are more than 90 days delinquent in dues payment to the F.O.P. because of a LEAVE-OF-ABSENCE, you are INELIGIBLE to vote or run for F.O.P. Office. If you have questions about dues and membership status, please contact Andrea Mruk at 215-629-3612.
F.O.P. ELECTION COMMITTEE
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!
I would like to start off by thanking John McNesby for always having our backs, especially mine when I got hurt back in October of 2016. Because of John, I was able to get connected with Diane Hlywiak who has represented me for the last 6 and a half years, while I jumped on a roller coaster ride of my life when I got injured and had to go to IOD. Diane is an amazing lawyer and was my rock throughout the whole ride and just want anyone who is on this ride to take a word of advice. 1 - Hold on tight. 2Make sure Diane is in the seat next to you because she will get through the ride with you. My ride finally ended on June 1st when my Service-Connected Disability was approved. I will forever be grateful to John McNesby because of his hard work for us and finding the best to represent us and now I am able to get off from my crazy roller coaster ride. Thank you again John McNesby and his team for always having our back and Diane Hlywiak thank you for never giving up on me and being an amazing lawyer and being someone I will always call my friend.
Barb Tiano Webb
PENSION APPEALS
FOP LODGE 5
I.O.D. & Disabilities
Ashley David Hoggard
Coordinator
Greetings to All! My name is Ashley David Hoggard. I am the appointed I.O.D. & Disabilities Coordinator for FOP Lodge #5.
I was critically shot in the line of duty on 06-14-2009, & NO-ONE knows the importance of Health Care, and Officer’s Wellness better than Me! I will perform ANY and ALL Task to the maximum of My abilities!
Myself, along with Joe Schrank, will assist ALL OUR Brothers, & Sisters in Blue, (retired or not) with determination, understanding, & compassion throughout ANY ordeal You/They may be faced with.
I have assisted hundreds of my fellow Officers/Members with their injuries, ailments, and any other problems they are faced with.
Whether it’s Workman’s Comp/Heart & Lung, or Regulation Pension related issuesNO PROBLEM WILL EVER BE IGNORED! I fight EVERYDAY to assure our members receive the best healthcare, & treatment available.
I have been working diligently, (not just myself-but all Members Of Lodge#5) to assure that the members of our prestigious
fraternity know that their needs will always come first!
I have learned so much just by conversing with members from all walks of life. My love, & compassion, grows each and everyday!
When I hear a member’s voice, (especially one that’s in distress) My dedication, & My resolve to be the best IOD coordinator/Injury Consultant amplifies every time a member confides in Me.
This is truly a Blessing! Each and everyday, not only do I learn from the Members, I learn from My colleagues, Our Lodge#5 staff, but most importantly, I learn to grow within Myself. My career here @ Lodge#5 provides this, & SO MANY OTHER OPPORTUNITIES!
I’m truly appreciative for this once in a lifetime chance, and FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, I thank You All, & I WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!!!
Ashley Hoggard IOD/Disabilities Heart & Lung
Proud Supporter of the FOP Survivors Fund
Proudly Gives Back to Veterans and Officers
Legal Services
By Al Kuchler
Estate Documents are a way you show your family you care and also a way to show what you want done…
Simply put, for those of you Active or Retired who do not have a Will, Power of Attorney, or a Living Will, for what are you waiting? You do not have to be older to get any of these documents done, in fact those that wait until they get older keep forgetting or putting it off until it becomes too late. If you wait until you develop serious medical issues, you may not be able to come to the office here to accomplish the matter, your mobility may be in question. Some wait until they develop severe medical issues, like Alzheimer’s or Dementia, which will not allow us to produce a legal document. For a husband and wife to see me here, I can construct all three documents for both in under an hour, complete with notarization and witnesses that become legal and actionable that day.
I can prepare these documents here at the office for members and their spouses who reside in Pennsylvania, Monday thru Thursday, from 8am until 230pm each day and that includes a notary and witnesses. All you need to do is call me at 215-629-3613 to make an appointment.
For those that live in New Jersey, please send me an email at akuchler@fop5.org complete with your full name and payroll number. I will send you a Will Questionnaire at that email address, with full instructions for you and your spouse. The questionnaire and the email will have all the necessary instructions to accomplish this task.
We do not cover other areas of the country, but if you have a Pennsylvania address that you can use, we can still take care of you and your spouse.
It is up to you. If you insist on waiting you are taking an unnecessary risk, and that risk could be that your own mental state may not allow you to prepare these documents. If you complete these documents in advance, all you need to do is make people aware that you did complete them and the location of these documents. That way you still control them.
These are matters only you can secure; we cannot do it for. Waiting for some things can be a good thing but, in this instance, it is not.
Pick up the phone and give me a call, 215629-3613 or by email at akuchler@fop5.org
FOP LODGE 5
Conductors’ Message
by Sharon Jonas
The contract talks that we have been long preparing for are underway. These contract talks are based on the input we received from the membership and our team has incorporated your wants, desires and needs into the contract presentation. Of all the things we do at the FOP, nothing is more important than the contract. The folks here that work on the contract full time- either negotiating it or enforcing it – are very good at what they do.
The membership has done a very decent job of electing some very competent and knowledgeable folks to serve on the FOP Executive Board to represent your interests. I’m amazed at the wealth of labor relations and collective bargaining experience we have here working on behalf of the members. We have a President who knows the FOP from the ground up and has done every job in the building over the last 25 years. Outside of the Lodge 5, Roosevelt has also served as the Pa State FOP Vice President and the elected pension representative. Additionally, we have the current FOP National Vice President on our Board along with a former National FOP V.P. We also have the current Pa State FOP Vice President on our Board. And to round that all out, we have a
Vice-President who is also a lawyer. Having a lawyer around is pretty handy and we are able to nip a lot of things in the bud with our “inhouse lawyer”. It is also beneficial to our members in crisis situations in that we have legal counsel always available.
Article reminder! Please check your beneficiary. This applies to both our active and retired members. Far too often, we discover that the listed beneficiary is a deceased parent or an ex-spouse or the parent of an officer who has long been married with a family of their own. Please call the FOP to check and make sure the appropriate beneficiary is listed for both your FOP policy and your city life insurance.
Finally, an important note for your calendar is the 38th Annual Ben to the Shore, Sunday July 20th , 2025. The 65 or 30 mile bike tour charity bike ride from Philadelphia to Atlantic City which provides necessary financial relief for the families of critically injured and fallen first responders. Visit www.fbbcf.org for more information.
Fraternally yours, please stay safe, Sharon Jonas
LODGE 5
CHAPLAINS CORNER
by: Lou Campione
We frequently receive requests for the history of a Philadelphia Police Officer and a Sheriff Deputy. Recently, a grandson of an officer called about his grandfather, P/O William C. Herling #1746, who was a turnkey at the old 26th district at Trenton Ave. and Dauphin Street. Herling died in the performance of duty on December 8th, 1945, having served the department for twenty-two years. He left behind his wife, Catherine, and nine children. As was the custom at the time, his viewing was held at his home, 2258 North Palethorp St., and a Solemn Requiem Mass was held at St. Boniface R.C. Church, which was located at Diamond and Hancock Streets from 1866 to 2006. He worshiped, worked, and lived in the 26th district. His descendants honored his sacrifice; his son Ronald became a Philadelphia Police Officer, and John a firefighter. His grandson James Ridgway has served as a volunteer in many police organizations, Town Watch, Police District Advisory Council, and as Vice President of Harrowgate Civic Association. Once again, another example of outstanding servant leadership. Generations of the P/O Herling family pay tribute to his sacrifice by continuing the tradition of servant leadership which he began.
Our history of servant leadership began with the founding of the Philadelphia Police and Sheriff Departments in 1798, when Mayor Hilary Baker died in the performance of duty during the yellow fever epidemic. Both departments share a two-hundred-twenty-seven-year history of servant leadership.
We like to think of ourselves as paramilitary, but what the research shows is that the
psychological profile for police and sheriffs is the same as that shared with clergy and social workers. We embrace the definition of servant leadership. We invest in serving others by doing as much good as we can for those in need. We respond to millions of requests for assistance each year. We attempt to do as much good as we can, for as many people as we can. We live the Judeo-Christian mission of service. The cornerstone of servant leadership is faith. The benchmarks of servant leadership in concert with faith are tremendous ways of insulating ourselves from the stress we encounter. More than two thousand studies conclude people of faith live longer, one study concluded as much as seven years, have better marriages, divorce rate for people of faith is one out of one thousand and fifty-two versus one of two for those who do not practice, have children who embrace the faith, if a father practices his faith ninety one percent of the time the children will follow. Like P/O William C. Herling's family, they honored his sacrifice by becoming servant leaders.
Still not convinced? A young boy brings a note home from his teacher for his mother. He asks his mom what does it says. His mother responds You are too smart for school, and I will teach you at home. Many years later, his mom dies, and he cleans out her house and finds the note. The note from the teacher actually reads that he was stupid and he should not return to school. The boy’s name was Thomas Edison. He was awarded 2.332 patents. His mother was a woman of strong faith who practiced servant leadership. Her investment in her son made the difference. She rejected the teacher’s
definition and replaced it with her faith in God and an outstanding example of servant leadership.
The opposite of faith and anti-servant leadership takes on many forms, it can be described as “ego” edging God out. Putting ourselves first, we witness this in many ways, all of which tear down an organization. Research shows that ninety plus percent of people who quit an organization it is because of a supervisor. It has been reported that most heart attacks occur on a Monday morning because of the stress that people face when returning to work. Research confirms that stress makes us stupid. Working under stress from a bad supervisor hurts the mission of the organization. An adage is that no one cares how much you know until they know how much you care; if you do not care about your people, they will not care about the mission. This is the foundation
PHILADELPHIA
of servant leadership. In faith, it is described as “thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole mind. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” We are here to live life God’s way.
We offer this prayer to Michael the Archangel, who is a servant leader, recognized by the Jewish, Christian, and Muslin faiths as the Commanding Officer of God’s Heavenly Army and the patron of law enforcement and the military.
Michael the Archangel defend us in the day of battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil, may God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, prince of the heavenly host by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits that roam about the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen
PFFCU Opens the Door to a Lifetime of Financial Opp or tunities!
Board of Directors
Anthony LaRosa, Chairman
John H. Richardson, Vice Chairman
James E. Cunningham, Secretary
John LaRosa, Treasurer & Retired CEO
Branch Locations
King of Prussia Branch on DeKalb Pike
Montgomery Mall Branch on Bethlehem Pike
Four Greenwood Square at 3325 Street Road
Warminster Branch on Street Road
Marlton Crossing Branch on Route 73
Lenola Road at Moorestown Mall, NJ
Route 42 South, Washington Township, NJ
Spring eld Square Nor th Shopping Center on Baltimore Pike
3338 South Broad Street
Haverford Avenue Branch
Ridge Avenue Branch
Cedarbrook Plaza on Cheltenham Avenue
7500 Castor Avenue
Mayfair Branch on Frankford Avenue
Grant and Academy Shopping Center
Leo Mall on Bustleton Avenue
901 Arch Street (Main O ce)
Joann Zarro, Director
Patricia Fox, Director
Timothy J. Hagger ty, Director
Online Banking
PFFCU.org
Mobile Banking
PFFCU Mobile App Your deposits are federally insured by the NCUA.
Members of John F. Givnish Life Celebra on pictured le to right: John F. X. Givnish III, Marty Burns, William R. Cleary, David Wolf III, Daniel J. Solecki and John F. Givnish -- represent over 100+ years of funeral service and experience.
We are proud to recognize and celebrate the exceptional dedication of our team in supporting the Philadelphia Police community. This enduring commitment reflects the values of compassion, respect, and unity that drive us every day.
Through our efforts, the team at Givnish Life Celebration consistently demonstrates their support for the brave men and women of the Philadelphia Police. Whether through moments of quiet encouragement, or more visible acts of solidarity, the team has always stood beside those who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of our community.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to honoring those who serve and to fostering a spirit of unity and gratitude within our community. The team at Givnish Life Celebration is proud to stand with the Philadelphia Police, recognizing the invaluable contributions they make each and every day.
By GIVNISH
POLAR PLUNGE
POLAR PLUNGE
THE FIRST RESPONDERS ADDICTION TREATMENT (FRAT) PROGRAM IS ONE OF THE FIRST PROGRAMS IN THE AREA DESIGNED TO TREAT THE UNIQUE NEEDS OF CURRENT AND FORMER LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, DELIVERED BY TEAM MEMBERS WHO SERVED THEIR COMMUNITIES AND COUNTRY . THE PROGRAM STARTED IN 2011 AND HAS TREATED OVER 1,000 PATIENTS, MANY OF WHOM ARE STILL PART OF THE FRAT PEER SUPPORT NETWORK.
FRAT SPECIFIC PROGRAMS:
EQUINE THERAPY
SUICIDE PREVENTION
ART THERAPY
MUSIC THERAPY
TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA PEER MEETINGS
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
GROUP THERAPY
HELP!
We have worked to develop these programs for the past 58 years. F.O.P. President Roosevelt Poplar continues to lead the way in providing for the needs of our members. We continue to work with Law Enforcement Health Benefits Administrator Ray Convery and Assistant Administrator Christine Coulter and the department to develop programs according to the needs of our membership. We address the spiritual, physical, and psychological needs of our families to help us cope in our vocation as peace keepers.
We have the wealth of our Police Clergy Program, which is home to six hundred volunteer clergy from all faiths, willing to assist with all spiritual needs. Fr. Jim McNew serves as the F.O.P. spiritual director and can be contacted at 215-629-3622 and jmacnew@fop5.org
On the physical side we have physicians, nurses, physical trainers, dietitians, support groups, flu shots, comprehensive health screenings, colorectal screenings, heart scans, lung scans. Our focus is prevention. For example, L.E.H.B. Health Transformation Program is designed to help us lose fat, develop muscle, and to get into shape. L.E.H.B. is working with Damien Young of Warrior Consultants. All L.E.H.B. members, their spouse and dependent children 15 years or older, who are on the L.E.H.B. coverage are eligible to participate. This program has helped our members lose more than 9000 pounds of fat and gain 4500 pounds of muscle...The new state of the art 14000 square foot L.E.H.B. fitness center at 9432 Roosevelt Blvd. is now open Mon. thru Thurs. 5:00 A.M.-11:00 P.M. Fri. 5; 00 A.M.-10:00 P.M. Sat. 8:00 A.M.-6:00 P.M. Sun. 9:00A.M -5:00. P.M.
Every New Year we make New Year’s resolutions. Every year the most common is to lose weight, exercise more, and eat healthier. One survey concluded 180 million people make New Year resolutions and 8% keep them. The most common reason for the failure is that we do not change the behavior that is causing us to make the resolutions. The fundamental issue is that the change has to come from within, motivational speaker Matthew Kelly describes it as our lives change when our habits change. So, if the resolution is improved health, we strongly encourage you to join our L.E.H.B. trainer Damien Young at d.young@warriorworkoutcamps.com. And burn along on-line app. The benefit of daily exercise also impacts reducing stress, anger, anxiety, depression, if you add prayer and meditation to your commitment, you can also gain a spiritual benefit and in these times, we all desperately need God’s help.
Each of these programs developed as a result of needs of our members and their families.
These resources have been tested and have proven themselves as valuable resources. These programs assist in the healing process, as we have seen lives, marriages, and families restored. We have more than eleven hundred providers available: psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and social workers to address mental health concerns. Whatever the need is we can find a resource. Please use the programs, to help let the healing begin, to help get to a safe place.
Bereavement - We assist families on the loss of one of our F.O.P.
BY LOU CAMPIONE
members contact Lou Campione at 215-823-9828 or Andrea Mruk at 215-629-3612. louis.campione@phila.gov or andrea@fop5.org
Bottles and Badges
AA Support Group Meetings are every Wednesday at 7:00pm, the Fraternal Order of Police 11630 Caroline Road. We can help provide the support you need to stop drinking. If you want help to stop we are here to help.
•Information can be obtained from Rob Lutz 215-239-8015 or Lou Campione at 215-823-9828 or Matt Market 215768-8550
•Employee
Assistance Program (Peer Officers)
Available by contacting 215-685-9940 1341 N. Delaware Ave. room 407
*External E.A.P. (Professional Counseling)
External Employee Assistance is provided by Penn Behavioral Health. They are a part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. Penn can be reached at 1-888-321- 5405. Combined with our Law Enforcement Health Benefits counseling network, which is facilitated by Charlie Baker 267-350-5405, we have available eleven hundred Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Counselors and Social Workers.
Penn can be reached at 1-888-321-4433, 24 hours a day.
•First Responder Addiction Treatment (F.R.A.T.) Program
•Livengrin Foundation has been treating Philadelphia Police Officers Since 1966. This program was designed and run by one of our own Lodge 5 members. The staff of the FRAT program is a mixture of active and retired law enforcement, peer and professional counselors. They can help with all addictions or a combination of addiction and mental health concerns. Both inpatient and outpatient needs are addressed with this program. The FRAT program can help get us back on the street with better coping skills and with resources to cope with job related stress.
FRAT HOTLINE- 855-372-8435 Web Page www.responderaddiction.com
•Gambling Treatment
We have received requests for help regarding gambling, it effects every facet of your life. It can change your perception, strain your relationships and interfere with your obligations and responsibilities. You may think you can stop any time you want. However, you just can’t seem to do it. Compulsive gambling is an addiction which can be successfully treated if you have the right help.
Julian Katz is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is a member of CP Mirarchi Counseling services. He can be reached 856-904-7030 email Juliankatzlpc@gmail.com.
He has offices at 1526 Wolf St. Phila. Pa. 19145. Green to blue this is a support group for our members who also serve in the military. It is open to all military personnel components. For information contact Willie Sierra wsierra@fop5.org 215-629-3627
The Guide App| theguideapp.com/fop5
In only 15 MINUTES A DAY you can create lasting change for yourself. The exercises are designed to be quick and convenient (micro-learning) while also being powerful and effective.
Psychologist Dr. Paul Dikun
The Doctor is in on Fridays starting a 6:00 AM at Law Enforcement Health Benefits at 2233 Spring Garden St. To make an appointment contact Helen Miller at LEHB 215-763-8290. To make appointment at his office call 215-638-4520, 2824 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, PA.19020
• Shooters Support Group
The group meets at the Fraternal Order Police 11630 Caroline Road. This is a support group open to anyone who has been involved in a shooting. Yvette Clark and Jonathan Josey have led this charge. ,Any questions concerning the Shooters Support Group please contact, Jonathan Josey 267-235-1539, or Yvette Clark 215-669-1321.
• Smoking Cessation Program.
The Police Department, Fraternal Order of Police, Law Enforcement Health Benefits; and the Department of Health are partnering to bring our members a smoking cessation support and assistance programs
• Dr. Trisha MacNair and Dr. Olga Calof summarize years of research in the long life equation published by Adams Media 2007, conclude smoking reduces life expectancy by eight years. They conclude, cigarette smoking is the single most important cause of preventable disease and premature death in developed countries. Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, many of which are highly toxic, such as arsenic, formaldehyde, cyanide, benzene, toluene, and acrolein.
•The good news is that research shows if you stop smoking you can undue most of the damage, contact L.E.H.B. at 215-7638290.
If you have questions concerning any of these programs contact Lou Campione 215- 823-9828
In addition to the above listed programs, we have asked for assistance from outside agencies and they have provided tremendous help to us.
These programs include:
•Retrouvaille weekend program for hurting marriages, with follow up sessions to assist in continuing the healing and renewal process. Contact 1-800-470-2230.
•Focus on the Family
•Resources for marriage, family and parenting.
•Contact 1-800-A-Family or www.focusonthefamily.org
•New Life Resources
•Dealing with life and addictions.
•Contact 1-800-New-Life or www.newlife.com
•Family Life Today
•Resources for marriage and family.
•Contact 1-800-FLTODAY or www.familylife.org.
•Project Rachel
•Post abortion healing
•Contact 215-587-5640
•Boystown.org/parenting
Finally, we would be remiss not to discuss the spiritual component of behavioral health. There have been more than two thousand studies that have concluded a strong spiritual foundation helps us in every aspect of life. This spiritual impact is very present when it comes to marriage; one survey concluded that the divorce rate for those families that pray together each day and attend weekly services was 1 out of 1052 as compared to 1 out of 2 for those who do not. There is an old saying the family that prays together stays together. A recent study concluded if a father practice’s his faith ninety one percent of the time the children will follow. Wow, what a powerful difference a father can make in the life of his children. The JudeoChristian tradition of the father being the spiritual leader of his family is validated by social science. What a priceless legacy that a father can leave to his family for all eternity. God has ordained the family as the domestic church.
In his book “When Divorce is not an option: How to Heal Your Marriage and Nurture Lasting Love.” The author Dr. Greg Popcak concludes “that people don’t just luck into successful marriages; it requires skills which can be taught.” He contends that if a couple seek a “marriage-friendly” counselor, meaning the counselor is committed to saving the marriage and has had formal training and supervision in martial therapy, they have success rates of 95 percent.
Some of the resources that are committed to saving marriage can be found in Retrouvaille, Focus on the Family, New Life, Family Life Today, Pastoral Solutions Institute, Worldwide Marriage Encounter, and Catholic Counselors.Com. Each of these resources has as a foundation a spiritual commitment to saving your marriage.
If you want to make spiritual exercise a part of your daily routine, than you can start by finding a place to worship, praying, reading religious literature, and listening to religious material. There are Bibles available in daily reading versions offering 365 segments in twenty minute sessions. All of this can help you develop the spiritual muscle that you can depend upon to get you through the stress of our chosen career. There is an old expression that there are no atheists in foxholes. Our careers in law enforcement are the fox hole experience, we need all the help we can get to get through it. We can connect you with six hundred clergy from all faiths, from the Police Chaplains Program for any spiritual need that you may have, if we can help contact Lou Campione 215-823-9828.
Harrisburg Memorial - May 5th, 2025
Harrisburg - May 5th, 2025
Philadelphia Emerald Society
Flame - May 7th, 2025
Living Flame -
May 7th, 2025
Living Flame - May 7th, 2025
Survivors Luncheon
May 7th, 2025
Washington Memorial - May 15th, 2025
F.O.P. Lodge 5, 50 Year Members
F.O.P. Lodge 5, 50 Year Members
What to expect from a Vasectomy:
Most vasectomies are outpatient procedures done with local anesthesia. This means there’s nothing for you to do to prepare. At Philadelphia Urology Associates we have a method called No-scapel vasectomy, which unlike a traditional vasectomies only requires tiny incisions, making it a much less-invasive approach. The puncture site can be covered with dressing and requires no stitches.
After your vasectomy you may feel some mild discomfort in the area, which can usually be relieved with an athletic support, ice pack or nonprescription pain medication. Your doctor may recommend you avoid strenuous activity or sex for several days.
After vasectomies it is important to note that it will take from one to six months for all living sperm to pass out of your reproductive tract. Your doctor will be able to tell you through a semen sample when you are sperm-free.
Dr. Bruce Sloane
The doctors at Philadelphia Urology Associates have performed this procedure successfully on hundreds of patients. If you’re considering a vasectomy, contact us today to set up an appointment to see it is right for you.
Retirement: What Now?
By Lou Campione
In an article from the Association of Mature American Citizens Magazine AMAC Advantage, titled Retirement in the 21st Century, the new cycle of retirement by John D. Caffrey, CFP, writes that our lives have changed, and the way we view retirement has also changed. “Life expectancy at the turn of the 20th century was a mere 47 years. Today, the average American can look forward to about 78 years of life. What’s causing this trend? Some reasons are obvious, such as improved health care, medical advances, and healthier lifestyles. People are taking better care of themselves. They’re giving up smoking, learning to eat right, and exercising regularly. Inevitably, these trends lead to healthier, longer, more productive lives. The result is a new way of thinking about age. The period between ages 45 and 65 is no longer thought of as middle and old age, but instead a second adulthood. Next comes late adulthood (60 to 80), followed by old age (80 to 100), and very old age (100+).” What does this mean to us? First recommendation would be we join “The Association of Mature American Citizens” to gain valuable information, to help us be better prepared for our mature years. Second, we are going to walk through some of those aspects of life to help ease the adjustment into retirement.
We look forward to retirement for our entire careers and try to be prepared, but many factors contribute to our success or failure. One of the most important factors that is frequently overlooked is the behavioral health aspect of retirement. Retirement is rated by social scientists as a nine (9) on the stress scale of 1 to 10. It is considered extremely stressful, even though it is something we all desire. We identify ourselves by our careers, and this is even more of an identity issue for those in law enforcement. We identify ourselves and our identified by others as police officers and sheriffs.
This causes many issues to arise when we make that transition. The deferred retirement option plan has given us five years to prepare. It has given us time to help make adjustments. We offer the following suggestions to assist with the transition.
The first six months of retirement are referred to as the Treasure Island Syndrome; research shows that the first six months of retirement are a very happy time. This is similar to the “honeymoon stage” of marriage; there is a novelty to it, newness. We can use this stage more effectively by setting the standards we will deploy during retirement, such as setting aside a daily block of time to do physical, mental, and spiritual exercise to be the best that we can be, to thrive. Our goal should be to get the most out of our retirement. I know what you are thinking, it is easier said than done. This is a golden opportunity; we have the time, the desire, and if not now, when? We offer the following to help start your journey on a long, happy, healthy, and blessed retirement.
Dr. Trisha Macnair, M.D., and Dr. Olga Calof in The Long-Life Equation report on research that concludes exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, breast cancer, and generally keeps death at bay. One study concluded that daily exercise, such as a brisk hour-long walk, halves the risk of stroke. Getting and staying active can add quality years to our lives. We should find activities that we enjoy doing, such as walking, biking, and working out. If we find activities we enjoy doing, then we are more likely to continue them. Research shows that one hour of brisk exercise is best, and can add years to our lives, but a benefit is gained from any amount of good exercise. If you think it is too late, a Harvard University study concluded that people over 75 who quit smoking and started exercising could add two years to their lives.
Research has shown that keeping our minds active can add years to our lives and quality to our years.
The researchers contend that we should “keep stretching our minds as learning forces the brain to grow new connections between the nerve cells, a direct antidote to aging.”
A study conducted by Rush University Medical Center Chicago concluded “those who said that they spent time on activities including significant information processing (such as listening to the radio, reading, going to museums, doing crosswords, or solving puzzle games) had nearly half the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease as those who did not.” A classic example of this is a story about Associate Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, who was still serving at age 90. One morning, his clerk arrived at the chambers at 6:00 A.M. and found Justice Holmes in deep study. The clerk asked what he was doing. Justice Holmes responded I am expanding my mind by studying Greek. Holmes was the oldest justice in the history of the Supreme Court, serving to the age of 90 years and 309 days. Justice Holmes remained active until his death at age 93. Oscar Hammerstein was 64 years old when he wrote The Sound of Music. Winston Churchill was elected Prime Minister at age 65 during World War 2. Michelangelo was 72 years old when he designed the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Nelson Mandela was 75 years old when he was elected President of South Africa. Benjamin Franklin was 79 years old when he invented bifocals. Frank Lloyd Wright was 91 years old when he finished his work on the Guggenheim Museum. Bernice Gordon was still writing crossword puzzles at her death at the age of 101.
I have witnessed this phenomenon; my father, Anthony Campione, was a heavily decorated WWII veteran serving in the 1st Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. He lived the mission of the 1st Infantry Division: No Mission Too Difficult, No Sacrifice Too Great, Duty First, every day of his life. He volunteered his time in service to his church, family, and country until two weeks before his death at age 95
years and 49 days. All of this evidence supports the conclusion that staying active, stretching the mind, is a direct antidote to aging.
Need more evidence, a December 29th, 2013 parade magazine article featured Olga Kotelko, “A retired school teacher from West Vancouver, Canada, who can be the poster child for late bloomers.” At age 77, she entered her first “masters” track and field competition for participants age 35 and over. At age 85, she knocked off nearly 20 world records in a single year. She was the only woman in the world over 90 still long-jumping competitively, she lived until age 95. John “Moon” Reilly was a Philadelphia firefighter who served as the President of Local 22 International Association of Fire Fighters. Moon served on the Board of Pensions for thirty-three years, he mentored me from 1984 to 1992, and later Ron Stagliano and F.O.P. President Roosevelt Poplar when they served on the Board. Moon died at age 93. At his funeral, his family said the day before his death, he returned forty emails and phone calls to fire firefighters seeking his help.
“We think longevity is probably about 70 to 75 percent lifestyle, says Angela Brooks Wilson, PhD., a geneticist in the Genome Sciences Center at the B.C. Cancer Agency in Vancouver. That means just a quarter of healthy aging is about the protection you inherited, and up to three-quarters are determined by how you play the hand you were dealt.”
The third area that we must work on is the spiritual. More than two thousand studies concluded that people of faith live longer, are happier, healthier, and have better relationships. Research has shown that a strong spiritual life could add as many as seven quality years to life. Spiritual exercise consists of attending Church service, prayer, reading the Bible, religious literature, and meditation. Bibles are available in daily reading versions offering 365 segments in twenty-minute sessions.
Adding daily prayer and weekly services helps develop the spiritual muscle to deal with stress. Being part of a spiritual community, i.e., membership in a Synagogue, Church, or Mosque, helps provide additional support in times of crisis from
God and fellow believers.
Drs. Macnair and Calof, in The Long-Life Equation, describe it this way: a powerful link was found between faith and longevity. A 12-year study at the University of Iowa, for example, found that those who attended religious services at least once a week were 35 percent more likely to live longer than those who never attended a church or other faith-based events. Being actively involved in a spiritual community boosts the immune system and helps to keep high blood pressure and clogged arteries at bay. It is associated with lower levels of diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Another study found that the divorce rate for the general population is one out of two; that is, for every two marriages, one will end in divorce. For those of faith (those couples who pray together each day and attend weekly religious services), the divorce rate is 1 out of 1052. Great odds, and you get the benefit of a good marriage and family.
Matthew Kelly, in his book Resisting Happiness, reported on a study of hospice nurses asked what they’re dying patients reflected on; these were the responses. “I wish I’d had the courage to be myself. I wish I had spent more time with the people I love. I wish I had made spirituality more of a priority. I wish I hadn’t spent so much time working. I wish I had discovered my purpose earlier. I wish I had discovered my purpose earlier. I wish I had learned to express my feelings more. I wish I hadn’t spent so much time worrying about things that never happened. I wish I had taken more risks. I wish I had cared less about what other people thought. I wish I had realized earlier that happiness is a choice. I wish I had loved more. I wish I had taken better care of myself. I wish I had been a better spouse. I wish I had paid less attention to other people’s expectations. I wish I had quit my job and found something I enjoyed doing. I wish I had stayed in touch with old friends. I wish I had spoken my mind more. I wish I hadn’t spent so much time chasing the wrong things. I wish I’d had more children. I wish I had touched more lives. I wish I had thought about life’s big questions ear-
lier. I wish I had traveled more. I wish I had lived more in the moment. I wish I had pursued more of my dreams. These are the regrets of dying people, people who were out of time. Each of them contains a powerful lesson for those of us who are still living.”
Still not convinced, In Rethink How You Think by Dr. David Stoop writes of a “counter-clock wise study” conducted By Ellen Langer. A group of seventy-five-year-old men participated in an experiment “designed to turn the mind back twenty years for seven days. And when the week was over, all the same tests were run again; the researchers found that the men’s memory and eyesight improved by 10 percent. Many of their IQ scores were higher. There were also improvements in most other tests. Even their arthritic fingers straightened and lengthened. How did these changes take place? Langer noted “it is the change in thinking, proving that our biology is not our destiny. Langer noted, it is not primarily our physical selves that limit us, but rather our mind set about our physical limits.”
We can thrive if we allow ourselves to pursue being the best person we can be, and that is a mindset to work hard every day on our physical, mental, and spiritual health. Retirement means we must continue to work to be the best that we can be, and in turn, we enjoy the best quality of life.
In conclusion, John D. Caffrey from The Association of Mature American Citizens writes, “The effect that longer, healthier lives may have on the traditional life cycle of education, work, and retirement. It will be replaced by short-term retirement, followed by any combination of career shift, parttime or flex time work, entrepreneurial endeavors, and continuing education, interspersed with occasional “mini retirement.”
If you wish to contact the Association of Mature American Citizens, the website is: WWW.AMAC.U.S. OR CALL 1-888-262-2006
Philadelphia Police Department’s Canine Unit History and K9 Dogs that Died in Line of Duty
May 1960 from the Badge and Key Published by the members of the Philadelphia Police Department.
Police K-9 Corp – For the first time in Philadelphia Police History, dogs began regular patrols of the city streets in the first step toward development of a Canine Police Corp to help combat crime in dangerous night-time hours. The inaugural patrols were arranged with Park Guard Superintendent Franics C. Deegan. In addition to lending the city the Patrol Dogs and their handlers, Superintendent Deegan authorized an intensive training period for the Philadelphia Police Officers traveling in each team. Special trained German Shepherds, borrowed from the K-9 Corp of the Fairmount Park Commission, have been selected for the inaugural patrol in two Police Districts. The 29th Police District, at 61st and Thompson Streets. And the 14th District, Germantown Avenue and Haines Street are the sections in which the dogs will be assigned. It will mark the first use of dogs on routine police patrol duty.
A list of 11 – Police K-9 Dog’s with less than three years of service to the Philadelphia Police Department Police K-9 Unit that died in the Line of Duty.
BARON #3 12/01/1964 - 06/13/19662yrs.
THUNDER#105/24/1968 - 08/28/19702yrs.
BARON #1101-15-1968 - 07/09/19702yrs.
ZACH #1 02/01/1973 - 08/01/1974 1yr.
HOBO #406/01/1971 - 02/18/19743yrs.
GREASY #103/15/1977 - 09/14/19792yrs.
SHILOH #101/01/1972 - 03/18/19742yrs
BUTCH#609/01/1971 - 01/01/19754yrs.
KING #10205/07/1980 - 10/23/19822yrs.
KORRY#102/18/1982 - 07/03/19853yrs.
WOODROW #53707/13/2001 - 05/24/20021yr.
LOOKING FOR THE NAMES AND STORIES OF THE DOGS (OFFICER’S)
That have given their life for this office and City of Philadelphia they help to protect. I will be published in a Philadelphi Police Memorial Book of fallen officers and history. – If photos are available, we will accept them. Their stories are very important Email to facesfromsfromscratch@aol.com president of the Philadelphia Police Memorial Museum. In the Subject section: statement: Place K9 Unit – OR Call Scratch “Senior” with any questions you might have 267-546-7796. We will want to add these dogs and names to Memorial Wall in Washington for services rendered, if possible.
Charles P. Elliott, PC
Charles P. Elliott, CPA, CFE, CFF – Practicing in Public Accounting since 1975, Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office (Ret.)
Peter T. Elliott, CPA, CFE – Practicing in Public Accounting since 2008
Michael Dowd, EA (Enrolled Agent) – IRS Revenue Agent (Ret.)
John Prendergast, CFE – Philadelphia Police Department (Lt. Ret.)
FOP PAC
AUtHORIzAtION FORM FOR CONtRIBUtION tO tHE F.O.P. LODGE #5 PAC (POLItICAL ACtION COMMIttEE) FUND
I hereby authorize the City of Philadelphia to deduct (check one): [ ] $3.00 [ ] $5.00 [ ] $10.00 [ ] $_________ (Other)
From my earnings each pay period the amount certified above as a voluntary contribution to be paid to the F.O.P. Lodge #5 PAC Fund, 11630 Caroline Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154, to be used in accordance with the by-laws of the F.O.P. Lodge #5 PAC Fund for the purpose of making political contributions.
My contribution is voluntary, and I understand that it is not required as a condition of membership in any organization or as a condition of continued employment. Additionally, it is free of reprisal and that I may revoke authorization at any time by giving written notice to the F.O.P. Lodge #5 PAC Fund. I also understand that contributions to the F.O.P. Lodge #5 PAC Fund are not deductible as a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes.
Name (print) ___________________________________________________ Payroll # ___________________
Address ______________________________________________________
District/Unit_________________
City ______________________________________ State ______ Zip _______ Phone ____________________
Signature _______________________________________________ Date
PLEASE MAIL COMPLETED FORM TO: F.O.P. LODGE #5, AttENtION PAC FUND 11630 CAROLINE ROAD, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19154
"Never Let Them Walk Alone"
Auxiliary President’s Message...
by Donna Giulian, Lodge 5 Auxiliary, President
Welcome to the latest edition of Auxiliary news. We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the Cookie for Cops Event.
A few weeks ago, our members gathered to assemble nearly 300 trays of Philadelphia’s finest bakery goods. This year, we were fortunate to have 16 bakeries join us with donations, which we matched with purchases thanks to our generous supporters who sponsored trays to express their own gratitude to the Philadelphia Police Officers.
This year, our special visits were to the Kensington Mini Station and the Narcotics Strike Force Unit. Our safety was ensured by a special escort of our friends, the 369 Motorcycle Club and traffic officers. It was a remarkable day for our members who made deliveries across the city to show support for our Officers. This effort was complemented by a bulk delivery to Headquarters two days later.
One of the original programs considered since our formation was to offer scholarships to high school seniors planning to attend an accredited college or trade school after graduation. We are excited to announce that 2025 is the year we launch this program! Although the response was not overwhelming, we are pleased to announce our first two scholarship
recipients: Mya Baker, who is graduating from Saint Huberts High School planning to attend Rowan College and Avery Samarco graduating from Lower Moreland High School and is planning on attending Temple University this fall. We wish both of these young ladies, the very best in their college careers.
I am very honored to have been selected by the National FOP Auxiliary to participate in this year’s 2025 Police Memorial Week ceremonies in Washington D.C. It is an honor and privilege, and I hope to make our Auxiliary and FOP Lodge 5 proud. Participating in this event has been my dream, and I am so very thrilled to attend this year.
As we look ahead, we are preparing for our Annual Designer Bag Bingo event on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Mark your calendars and check social media for updates, as tickets sell out quickly. The event, priced at $45.00 includes lunch and chances to win nice bags, making it a popular choice among many bingo fans.
In closing, I would like to express our members’ excitement and pride in supporting TEAM POPLAR and Roosevelt Poplar for President of FOP Lodge 5.
“Blessed are the Peace Makers for they shall inherit the earth.”
Peace Officer’s Memorial
Submitted by: Lodge #5 Chaplain
ROBERtEtHRIDGEPHILADELPHIAPA WILLIAMADAMSPHILADELPHIAPA
PAtRICIAJONES
“Blessed are the Peace Makers for they shall inherit the earth.”
Peace Officer’s Memorial
Submitted by: Lodge #5 Chaplain
First NameLast NameCity
Obituaries
By: Lou Campione
The FOP, Lodge Five, dedicates this section of every issue of the “Peace Officer” to honor the brave men and women who have dedicated a good portion of their lives to the vigilant watch protecting the lambs from the lions. Once in a while someone sends a poem or writing that they feel is an appropriate expression of gratitude to our fraternal brothers and sisters who have passed away. Sometimes it is the work of the person who sends it or something they have read that moves even the hardest of souls. We encourage and welcome these submissions. To make it easy, please use the page following the obituaries to help us honor our brothers and sisters. Thank You!
RETIRED SGT. THOMAS HOERST #390
APPT. DECEMBER 3RD 1973 CLASS 231
ASSIGNED 16TH, 25TH, IDENT UNIT, 24TH I.A.D., ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, VIETNAM.
PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 17TH
2024 AT AGE 72.
RETIRED P/O AUGUSTINE V. MELLACE
JR. APPT. AUGUST 15TH 1966
CLASS 180 ASSIGNED 25TH, RETIRED OCTOBER 3RD 1970 (S/C DIS.)
PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 4TH
2024 AT AGE 81.
RETIRED P/O DAVID SWISHER #5874
APPT. JUNE 23RD 1988 CLASS 268
ASSIGNED 12TH, NARCOTICS INTEL, CRIM INTEL., RETIRED JUNE 19TH 2020. ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 10TH 2024 AT AGE 65.
RETIRED LT. MARK DEEGAN #218
APPT. MAY 17TH 1976 CLASS 235
ASSIGNED 25TH, WEST DETECTIVE DIVISION, 26TH, 1ST, SOUTH
DETECTIVE DIVISION., HOMICIDE, RETIRED APRIL 23RD 2021.
PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 9TH 2024 AT AGE 71.
RETIRED P/O RONALD L. JONES
#5852 APPT. AUGUST 17TH 1981
CLASS 257 ASSIGNED 22ND,MAJOR CRIMES UNIT, 6TH, CIVIL AFFAIRS UNIT, RETIRED DECEMBER 21ST 2007, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE, PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 9TH 2024 AT AGE 76.
RETIRED P/O FRANK COSTANZO #2057 APPT. JUNE 21ST 1999 CLASS 329 ASSIGNED 24TH, MAJOR CRIMES, RETIRED AUGUST 4TH 2013 (S/C DIS.) PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 11TH 2024 AT AGE 55.
RETIRED P/O NATHANIEL DUNN #1753 APPT. APRIL 2ND 1962 CLASS 155 ASSIGNED 25TH, 6TH, 93RD, RETIRED APRIL 29TH 2002. ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY. PASSED AWAY ON SEPTEMBER 29TH 2024 AT AGE 84.
RETIRED P/O JAMES WILLIAMS #4769 APPT. AUGUST 1ST 1962
CLASS 157 ASSIGNED 14TH, 39TH, HIGHWAY PATROL, 22ND, 6TH, JUVENILE AID DIVISION. RETIRED MARCH 17TH 1988. ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY 1958-1962. PASSED AWAY ON JULY 24 2024 AT AGE 83.
RETIRED LT. VINCENT KLEPAC #194
APPT. NOVEMBER 15TH 1966 CLASS 181
ASSIGNED 22ND, 5TH, 39TH, SOUTH
DETECTIVE, HEADQUARTERS INV. UNIT, RETIRED DECEMBER 31ST 2003, FATHER OF SGT. MARTIN KLEPAC #281 ASSIGNED FIELD OPERATIONS, GRANDFATHER OF P/O MARTIN KLEPAC #7440 ASSIGNED
15TH, LT. VINCENT KLEPAC #194
PASSED AWAY ON JANAURY 17TH 2025 AT AGE 78.
RETIRED SGT. LEONARD BOJANOWSKI
#420 APPT. AUGUST 12TH 1963 CLASS 163, ASSIGNED 17TH, SUBWAY, ACCIDENT INV., 26TH, HIGHWAY PATROL, SOUTH DETECTIVE, MAJOR CRIME,
RETIRED SEPTEMBER 13TH 1988, BROTHER OF RETIRED (DECEASED) P/O RONALD BOJANOWSKI #4522 SGT. LEONARD BOJANOWSKI #420
PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 22ND 2025 AT AGE 81.
RETIRED P/O PATRICK MCCOLE #7042
APPT. FEBRUARY 7TH 1966 CLASS 177
ASSIGNED 15TH, ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION, RADIO, TRANSIT, TRANSIT-SEPTA, 9TH, RETIRED MAY 21ST 1987, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY 19601966, AND PENNSYLVANIA NATIONAL GUARD 1973-1998, FATHER OF LT. CHRIS MCCOLE #196 WARMINSTER TOWNSHIP POLICE, AND P/O ROBERT MCCOLE #0127 EAST PIKELAND POLICE DEPARTMENT, P/O PATRICK MCCOLE #7042
PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 19TH 2025 AT AGE 83.
RETIRED P/O MORDIE BASKERVILLE #7531 APPT. JUNE 26TH 1967 CLASS 185
ASSIGNED 19TH, HIGHWAY PATROL, 18TH, 23RD, 35TH.
RETIRED APRIL 30TH 1992.
PASSED AWAY ON JANAURY 21ST 2025 AT AGE 82.
RETIRED P/O WILLIAM RICE #3590 APPT. MARCH 18TH 1957 CLASS 133
ASSIGNED 19TH, RETIRED JULY 19TH 1980, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE 1951-1955, PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 23RD 2025 AT AGE 93.
RETIRED P/O ALESSANDRO CRICELLI #2356 APPT. JANUARY 2ND 1995 CLASS 310, ASSIGNED 23RD, 8TH, NARCOTICS STRIKE FORCE, RETIRED MAY 4TH 2018, ALSO SERVED BRYN ANTHYN POLICE DEPARTMENT. PASSED AWAY ON JANAURY 26TH 2025 AT AGE 59.
RETIRED P/O RONALD REILLY #9459
APPT. FEBRUARY 1ST 1971 CLASS 217, ASSIGNED 25TH, 24TH, FOOT TRAFFIC, DPU, HEAQUARTERS INV., RETIRED JANAURY 6TH 1994 PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 24TH 2025 AT AGE 89.
RETIRED DETECTIVE JEFFREY PIREE #638 APPT. JUNE 26TH 1970 CLASS 185 ASSIGNED 6TH, HIGHWAY PATROL, 15TH, NARCOTICS, CENTRAL DETECTIVE, HOMICIDE, DISTRICT ATTORNEY OFFICE, RETIRED AUGUST 2ND 2008, ALO SERVED PA. STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL OFFICE, UNCLE OF P/O KENNETH PIREE RADNOR POLICE DEPT., DET. JEFFREY PIREE PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 27TH 2025 AT AGE 78.
RETIRED P/O DONALD DALY #5996
APPT. AUGUST 12TH 1963 CLASS 163 ASSIGNED 17TH, JUVENILE AID, LABOR SQUAD, RETIRED MARCH 20TH 1986, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY. PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 18TH 2025 AT AGE 89.
RETIRED P/O RONALD SZOTT #5624
APPT. OCTOBER 2ND 1972 CLASS 228 ASSIGNED 4TH, 22ND, MARINE UNIT, RETIRED JANUARY 1ST 1991, PASSED AWAY ON DECEMBER 10TH 2024 AT AGE 80.
RETIRED P/O JAMES M. WOLSTEN-
HOLME #6375 APPT. AUGUST 2ND 1965 CLASS 171, ASSIGNED 5TH, 7TH, 8TH, RETIRED JANAURY 5TH 1990, ALSO SERVED AS SCHOOL DISTRICT SAFETY OFFICER, PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 24TH 2025 AT AGE 85.
RETIRED P/O FRANCISCO CASTELLANOS #1415 APPT. AUGUST 11TH 2008 CLASS 354, ASSIGNED 15TH, 1ST, 2ND, 8TH, RETIRED NOVEMBER 26TH 2024 (S/C DISABILITY). PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 20TH 2025 AT AGE 55.
RETIRED P/O LUIGI BERRADI #9583
APPT. MARCH 29TH 1971 CLASS 219 ASSIGNED 17TH, 35TH, RETIRED AUGUST 19TH 1989 (S/C DIS.). PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 17TH 2025 AT AGE 76.
RETIRED P/O CARVER W. BERRY SR. #1205 APPT. JULY 7TH 1969 CLASS 197, ASSIGNED 17TH, 22ND, 23RD, 5TH, RETIRED JANAUARY 25TH 1999, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 31ST AT AGE 81.
RETIRED P/O JAMES V. WARD #3298
APPT. JULY 7TH 1969 CLASS 197 ASSIGNED 16TH, 6TH, 3RD, NORTHWEST POLICE DIVISION , RETIRED APRIL 13TH 1993, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 3RD 2025 AT AGE 77.
RETIRED P/O MYRON STOKES #3266
APPT. JULY 7TH 1969 CLASS 197 ASSIGNED 1ST, NARCOTICS, RETIRED AUGUST 28TH 1992, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 3RD 2025 AT AGE 80.
RETIRED P/O FLOYD ZONENSTEIN #4886 APPT. APRIL 15TH 1957 CLASS 134 ASSIGNED 9TH, FOOT TRAFFIC, RETIRED NOVEMBER 25TH 1966 (S/C DIS.). ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 4TH 2025 AT AGE 90.
RETIRED CPL. DANIEL ANTHONY #8376 APPT. JULY 15TH 1996 CLASS 317, ASSIGNED 25TH, 3RD, 22ND, POLICE RADIO, RETIRED DECEEMBER 14TH 2023, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 5TH 2025 AT AGE 58.
RETIRED P/O JOHN W. SHARKEY #2208 APPT. MAY 17TH 1976 CLASS 235 ASSIGNED 23RD, AIRPORT, RETIRED JULY 9TH 1993, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 9TH 2025 AT AGE 78.
RETIRED P/O ALBERT PIROLLO #5527 APPT. MARCH 2ND 1970 CLASS 205 ASSIGNED 23RD, 1ST, ANTI CRIME TEAM 1, GRAPHIC ARTS, RETIRED JULY 6TH 1987, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 9TH 2025 AT AGE 82.
RETIRED P/O THOMAS DELOACH #4895 APPT. OCTOBER 22ND 1962 CLASS 159 ASSIGNED 17TH, JUVENILE AID DIVISION, ETHICS ACCOUNTABILITY, RETIRED OCTOBER 22ND 1990. PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 28TH 2025 AT AGE 82.
RETIRED P/O WILLIAM SERAD #3441
APPT. MAY 5TH 1969 CLASS 196
ASSIGNED 3RD, COMPUTER UNIT, RETIRED OCTOBER 20TH 1985, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, UNCLE OF CAPTAIN JAMES KIMREY #61 ASSIGNED 5TH. P/O WILLIAM SERAD PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 10TH 2025 AT AGE 86.
RETIRED P/O CULVIRT BOULDIN #2014
APPT. SEPTEMBER 5TH 1961 CLASS 154, ASSIGNED SIS, 39TH, 14TH, CIS, FOOT TRAFFIC, WARRANT UNIT, 16TH, RAT CONTROL, RETIRED APRIL 7TH, 1993, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 1ST 2025 AT AGE 89.
RETIRED DETECTIVE JOHN ROMANO
#923 APPT. NOVEMBER 15TH 1966
CLASS 181, ASSIGNED 9TH, ANTI CRIME TEAM 1, NORTHEAST DETECTIVE, CENTRAL DETECTIVE, SPECIAL INVESTIGATION BUREAU, RETIRED MAY 29TH 1992, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS 1958-1962. PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 12TH 2025 AT AGE 85.
RETIRED P/O JOSEPH R. YOUNG #2431
APPT. JULY 28TH 1986 CLASS 269 ASSIGNED 12TH, RETIRED NOVEMBER 28TH 2015. BROTHER OF LT. MICHAEL YOUNG #319 ASSIGNED NARCOTICS
STRIKE FORCE. P/O JOSEPH R. YOUNG PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 17TH 2025 AT AGE 73.
RETIRED SGT. KEVIN J. O'ROUKE
APPT. JUNE 18TH 1973 CLASS 229 ASSIGNED 19TH, 39TH, DISTRICT
ATTORNEY OFFICE, RETIRED JULY 31ST 1994, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE 1968-1972, PASSED AWAY ON JANUARY 29TH 2025 AT AGE 76.
RETIRED P/O DONALD DESMOND
#1790 APPT. APRIL 6TH 1964 CLASS 166 ASSIGNED 22ND, 2ND, 19TH, 18TH, 16-WEST POLICE DIVISION, COMMAND INSPECTION BUREAU, COMMUNITY RELATIONS, COURT LIASION, RETIRED SEPTEMBER 9TH, 1988, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 28TH 2025 AT AGE 81.
RETIRED P/O DANIEL GERAGHTY #4719 APPT. OCTOBER 13TH 1964 CLASS 167, ASSIGNED 6TH, RETIRED NON SERVICE DISABILITY FEBRUARY 12TH 1969. ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY AND NAVY, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 28TH 2025 AT AGE 80.
RETIRED LT. ROBERT PIATEK #92
APPT. JANUARY 28TH 1965 CLASS 168 ASSIGNED 35TH, ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION, CAMERA CONTROL, COMMAND INSPECTION BUREAU, 18TH, 4TH, 22ND, NARCOTICS, SOUTH DETECTIVE, RETIRED APRIL 28TH 1993, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES NAVY, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 2ND 2025 AT AGE 87.
RETIRED P/O MICHAEL P. SMITH #6397
APPT. AUGUST 1 1965 CLASS 171 ASSIGNED 35TH, JUVENILE AID DIVISION, RETIRED NOVEMBER 15TH 1985, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY 1960-1963, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 3RD 2025 AT AGE 87.
RETIRED P/O WILLIAM E. PARK #9839
APPT. NOVEMBER 8TH 1971
CLASS 224 ASSIGNED 22ND, STAKEOUT, DETENTION UNIT, RETIRED MARCH 11TH 1994, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, PASSED AWAY ON FEBRUARY 23RD 2025 AT AGE 77.
RETIRED STAFF INSPECTOR JOSEPH
DEVANNEY APPT. FEBRUARY 29TH
1960 CLASS 144, ASSIGNED 24TH, NORTH CENTRAL DETECTIVE, 7TH, 24TH, RADIO, 26TH, 24TH, FOOT
TRAFFIC, 35TH, STAFF INSPECTION, RETIRED MARCH 1ST 1985, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 5TH 2025 AT AGE 88.
RETIRED ROBERT HASSON #3532
APPT. AUGUST 4TH 1969 CLASS 198
ASSIGNED 9TH, 12TH, 15TH, RETIRED SEPTEMBER 23RD 1999 ALSO SERVED
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS 1966-1968, UNCLE OF P/O BRIAN FUSS #4535 ASSIGNED 7TH. P/O ROBERT HASSON PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 10TH 2025 AT AGE 79.
RETIRED DETECTIVE FLOYD J. GALLO
#9065 APPT. DECEMBER 6TH 1965
CLASS 175, ASSIGNED 4TH, NORTHWEST DETECTIVE, HOMICIDE, RETIRED JUNE 12TH 1991, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE, HUSBAND OF RETIRED P/O JOANN GLOWACZ GALLO LAST ASSIGNED NARCOTICS, DETECTIVE FLOYD J. GALLO PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 4TH 2025 AT AGE 89.
RETIRED P/O JOHN ERNEST JONES
JR. #9428 APPT. FEBRUARY 1ST 1971
CLASS 217 ASSIGNED 35TH, 26TH, RETIRED NOVEMBER 7TH 1993, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 13TH 2025 AT AGE 77.
RETIRED P/O DAVID WILLIAMS #7275
APPT. NOVEMBER 15TH 1966 CLASS 181 ASSIGNED 3RD, 9TH, 14TH, RETIRED MARCH 11TH 1988, UNCLE OF RETIRED INSPECTOR RONALD LEE
LAST ASSIGNED IDIS, AND S.E.P.T.A. P/O TROY PARHM, P/O DAVID WILLIAMS PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 12TH AT AGE 85.
RETIRED P/O DONATO M. CRISTINZIO #1823 APPT. APRIL 26TH 1965 CLASS 169, ASSIGNED TASK FORCE, SUBWAY, NARCOTICS, 18TH, FOOT TRAFFIC, RETIRED OCTOBER 21ST 1987, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES AIR FORCE, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 21ST 2025 AT AGE 85.
RETIRED P/O ANDREW SCHAFER #2261 APPT. APRIL 5TH 1999 CLASS 328, ASSIGNED CENTER CITY DISTRICT, NARCOTICS STRIKE FORCE, RETIRED MAY 17TH 2020. PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 24TH 2025 AT AGE 51.
RETIRED DETECTIVE ROBERT ETHRIDGE #9210 APPT. MARCH 29TH 1971 CLASS 219, ASSIGNED 17TH, 26TH, 9TH, 23RD, NORTHEAST DETECTIVE, WEST DETECTIVE, RETIRED AUGUST 24TH, 1994, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES NAVY, SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 22ND 2025 AT AGE 78.
RETIRED DETECTIVE SANTOS RIVERA APPT. DECEMBER 27TH 1966 CLASS 182, ASSIGNED 26TH, DISTRICT ATTORNEY OFFICE, RETIRED JULY 14TH 1999, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 24TH 2025 AT AGE 79.
RETIRED P/O JOHN MONAGHAN #3354 APPT. APRIL 2ND 1962 CLASS 155 ASSIGNED 26TH ON JUNE 4TH 1962 AND HE RETIRED FROM THE 26TH ON JANUARY 11TH 1989. PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 24TH 2025 AT AGE 84.
RETIRED P/O EUGENE D. SCHMITT #9846 APPT. NOVEMBER 8TH 1971 CLASS 224 ASSIGNED 23RD, N.I.I.U., RETIRED NOVEMBER 30TH 2004, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 16TH 2025 AT AGE 75.
RETIRED P/O PATRICIA JONES #2463
APPT. APRIL 17TH 1989 CLASS 279
ASSIGNED 17TH, RETIRED OCTOBER 13TH 2004, DAUGHTER OF RETIRED (DECEASED) P/O ALPHONSO MYERS
SR. #6291 LAST ASSIGNED SUBWAY, P/O PATRICIA JONES PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 23RD 2025 AT AGE 65.
RETIRED CPL. JOSEPH J. HARTMAN
#8151 APPT. SEPTEMBER 25TH 1967
CLASS 186, ASSIGNED TASK FORCE, 19TH, 6TH, 9TH, 15TH , POLICE
DETENTION UNIT, RETIRED JUNE 29TH 2013, FATHER OF DETECTIVE TIMOTHY HARTMAN #9206 ASSSIGNED EXTERNAL SERVICES, AND FATHER OF PHILADELPHIA FIRE DEPT. LT. PATRICK HARTMAN, CPL. JOSEPH J. HARTMAN PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 27 2025 AT AGE 78.
RETIRED P/O GENNARO PELLEGRINI
SR. #3722 APPT. MAY 24TH 1976 CLASS 236 ASSIGNED 25TH, CIVIL AFFAIRS, AIRPORT, RETIRED MAY 31ST 2002, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, FATHER OF (DECEASED) P/O GENNARO PELLEGRINI JR. #3722, KILLED IN LINE OF DUTY WHILE SERVING IN UNITED STATES ARMY IN IRAQ, P/O GENNARO PELLEGRINI JR. WAS ASSIGNED TO THE 26TH, GENNARO PELLEGRINI SR. IS BROTHER-IN-LAW OF RETIRED P/O HOWARD KRAVITZ #2497 LAST ASSIGNED MOBILE COMMUNICATION, UNCLE OF P/O COURTNEY KRAVITZ #3209 ASSIGNED 26TH, AND DETECTIVE GREGORY KRAVITZ #851 ASSIGNED NORTHEAST DETECTIVE, P/O GENNARO PELLEGRINI SR., PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 28TH 2025 AT AGE 84.
CPL. WILLIAM H. ALSTON JR. #8184, APPT. FEBRUARY 9TH 1998 CLASS 324, ASSIGNED 4TH, 24TH, POLICE DETENTION UNIT, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 6TH 2025 AT AGE 65.
RETIRED P/O WILLIAM ADAMS #4331 APPT. NOVEMBER 24TH 1986 CLASS 270 ASSIGNED 5TH, RETIRED JULY 15TH 2008, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY SERVING IN VIETNAM , FATHER OF P/O MARK ANTHONY #9610 ASSIGNED NARCOTICS STRIKE FORCE, P/O WILLIAM ADAMS PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 23RD 2025 AT AGE 77.
RETIRED SGT. CLARENCE HATCHER #477 APPT. DECEMBER 17TH 1956 CLASS 132, ASSIGNED 19TH, FOOT TRAFFIC, COMMAND INSPECTION BUREAU, 17TH, RETIRED JANUARY 16TH 1986, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY KOREAN WAR, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 27TH 2025 AT AGE 94.
RETIRED SGT. MAURICE "MOE" HAMPTON #542 APPT. JULY 5TH 1982 CLASS 258, ASSIGNED 18TH, 1ST, 22ND, SOUTH DETECTIVE, RETIRED JANUARY 23RD 2015, SON OF RETIRED (DECEASED) P/O EUGENE C. STARKS #5499, LAST ASSIGNED 29TH-19TH, UNCLE OF P/O DENIA STARKS #3736 ASSIGNED NARCOTICS FIELD UNIT, SGT. MAURICE HAMPTON PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 31ST 2025 AT AGE 64.
RETIRED P/O DENNIS LAMOND #1651
APPT. AUGUST 10TH 1972 CLASS 227 ASSIGNED 22ND, 35TH, 7TH, RETIRED JUNE 11TH 1989, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 3RD 2025 AT AGE 75.
RETIRED P/O JAMES J. TAYLOR #5435
APPT. JUNE 18TH 1973 CLASS 229, ASSIGNED 26TH, RETIRED JUNE 3RD 1983 (S/C DISABILITY), ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES NAVY, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 25TH 2025 AT AGE 80.
RETIRED P/O JOSEPH J. BOWMAN
#2327 APPT. OCTOBER 29TH 1962
CLASS 159, ASSIGNED 6TH, RETIRED FROM 6TH ON JULY 20TH 1988, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 9TH 2025 AT AGE 85.
RETIRED LT. JOSEPH MCHUGH #305
APPT. MAY 24TH 1971 CLASS 231
ASSIGNED 25TH, 93RD, 22ND, 15TH, 35TH, 1ST, 17TH, 90TH, 3RD, I.A.B., RETIRED MAY 27TH, 2005, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY 1965-1967, HUSBAND OF RETIRED P/O JUDITH
MCDONALD MCHUGH #5561 LAST ASSIGNED COURT LIAISON. LT. JOSEPH MCHUGH PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 9TH 2025 AT AGE 79.
RETIRED SGT. JAMES LUPINETTTI
#417 APPT. NOVEMBER 1ST 1965
CLASS 174 ASSIGNED TASK FORCE, 4TH, INTELLIGENCE, SOUTH DETECTIVE, MAJOR CRIMES, EAST DETECTIVE, POLICE COMMISSIONER OFFICE, RETIRED JANUARY 5TH 1990, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 8TH 2025 AT AGE 82.
RETIRED SGT. DOLORES
BARTHOLOMEW #318
APPT. APRIL 7TH 2000 CLASS 331
ASSIGNED 15TH, 25TH, RETIRED MARCH 24TH 2025, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 14TH 2025 AT AGE 60.
RETIRED DEPUTY SHERIFF BRENDA
AUSTIN
APPT. NOVEMBER 12TH 1987
RETIRED MAY 26TH 2004, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES NAVY, PASSED AWAY ON MARCH 23RD 2025, AT AGE 59.
RETIRED P/O PETER O. GANTE #2460
APPT. MARCH 23RD 1970 CLASS 206 ASSIGNED 9TH, RADIO, 6TH, RETIRED DECEMBER 1 1987, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES ARMY SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 17TH 2025 AT AGE 82.
RETIRED DETECTIVE CRAIG PETERSON #9085
APPT. DECEMBER 7TH 1970 CLASS 215, ASSIGNED 22ND, JUVENILE AID, HOMICIDE, EAST DETECTIVE DIVISION, RETIRED JULY 25TH 1997, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 13TH 2025 AT AGE 80.
RETIRED P/O EDWARD J. MAENNER
#5402 APPT. OCTOBER 2ND 1972 CLASS 229 ASSIGNED 17TH, 22ND, 24TH, CIVIL AFFAIRS UNIT, RETIRED JANAUARY 6TH 2006, BROTHER OF RETIRED P/O ANDREW MAENNER #5402, LAST ASSIGNED D.E.A. TASK FORCE. RETIRED P/O EDWARD J. MAENNER PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 22ND 2025 AT AGE 72.
SGT. MARK BROWN #8699
ASSIGNED AIRPORT APPT. JULY 15TH
1996 CLASS 317, PREVIOUSLY ASSIGNED 39TH, SOUTHWEST DETECTIVE, CENTRAL DETECTIVE, 16TH, POLICE RADIO, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES NAVY JANAURY 1988 TO DECEMBER 1991, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 22ND 2025 AT AGE 58.
RETIRED LT. JOSEPH T. MOONEY #268
APPT. JANUARY 6TH 1958 CLASS 138 ASSIGNED FOOT TRAFFIC, 26TH, JUVENILE AID DIVISION, 15TH, POLICE RADIO, STAKEOUT, RANGE, POLICE ACADEMY, FATHER OF RETIRED
INSPECTOR JOSEPH MOONEY LAST ASSIGNED I.D.I.S., LT. JOSEPH T. MOONEY PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 26TH 2025 AT 88.
RETIRED P/O WILLIAM K. WENITSKY
#5927 APPOINTED MARCH 2ND 1970
CLASS 205, ASSIGNED 23RD, HIGHWAY PATROL, 14TH, RETIRED MARCH 19TH
1986, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATES NAVY 1965-1969, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 24TH 2025 AT AGE 78.
RETIRED P/O ROBERT BRIGATI #1376
APPT. MAY 17TH 1976 CLASS 235, ASSIGNED 5TH, TRANSIT-CANINE, MARINE UNIT, RETIRED JULY 8TH 1990, ALSO SERVED UNITED STATE MARINE CORPS SERVING IN VIETNAM, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 28TH 2025 AT AGE 79. (Photo with Buster 12/19/1977)
RETIRED DETECTIVE EDWARD MCGUIRE #9177 APPT. DECEMBER 3RD 1973 CLASS 231, ASSIGNED 16TH, 19TH, JUVENILE AID DIVISION, EAST DETECTIVE, SOUTH DETECTIVE, RETIRED
OCTOBER 15TH 1989, COUSIN OF RETIRED LT. STEPHEN GUCKIN #344 LAST ASSIGNED ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION DIVISION, AND RETIRED P/O JOSEPH KENT #4655 LAST ASSIGNED TO NARCOTICS, DETECTIVE EDWARD MCGUIRE #9177 PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 27TH 2025 AT AGE 75.
EDWARD JOSEPH MCGUIRE
May 24, 1949 — April 27, 2025
Edward Joseph McGuire, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and lifelong public servant, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 75 years old.
Born on May 24, 1949, Ed lived a life full of laughter, competition, and love. He believed that life was best approached the same way he approached his favorite pastimes — a game on the field, a hand of cards, or a family board game around the kitchen table — with heart, strategy, and an eagerness to enjoy every moment.
Ed dedicated his career to service, spending 16 years on the police force from 1974 to 1990 and then working for the state parole system until his retirement in 2014. In both roles, he was known for his fairness, compassion, and deep belief in second chances.
His love of games and sports wasn't confined to his own enjoyment. Ed was a constant presence on the sidelines and in the dugouts, coaching his children's teams across baseball, soccer, softball, volleyball and basketball. Whether it was teaching them to win with humility, lose with grace, or simply love the camaraderie of the game, Ed's lessons went far beyond the scoreboard. His players — and especially his children and grandchildren — knew that with him, the most important thing was playing with heart.
Even after his coaching days, Ed's spirit of mentorship continued. He served proudly as a Veterans’ Mentor, offering guidance and a listening ear to those who had served our country. He also shared his deep faith with others as a Eucharistic Minister, bringing comfort and connection to many.
Later in life, Parkinson’s disease forced Ed to step back from
many of the activities he loved. Yet even as the disease took its toll, Ed never lost his spirit, his humor, or his love for the game of life. He continued to inspire all who knew him with his courage, resilience, and the way he celebrated the small joys of every day.
Ed’s greatest treasure was his family. He was the beloved husband of Karen (nee McNabb) for 52 years, with whom he built a life rooted in love, faith, and joy. Together they raised four children: Shawn (wife Marie, children Kaitlyn and Kylie), Dave (wife Laura, children Finnegan, Sullivan, Lachlan, and Madeline), Kelly Foley (husband Brendan, children Avery, Aubrey, and Andrew), and Bryan (wife Shannon, children Ryleigh, Ciaran, and Hadley). His 12 grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he relished every chance to cheer them on — at their games, school events, and in the simple victories of growing up.
Ed is also survived by his siblings: Sr. Kathy McGuire, Daughters of Charity, Alice Schlotter (Mark), John (Brenda) and Joe. He is predeceased by his parents James and Alice (nee Guckin) McGuire, his siblings James (his surviving wife Carol), Marianne Fikentsher (her surviving husband John), Michael and Daniel.
His love for family stretched across generations, forming a bond of shared laughter, support, and countless family game nights.
Those who knew Ed will remember his warm smile, his sharp wit, his competitive spirit, and above all, his unwavering love for those around him. His life was a beautiful game — full of heart, resilience, and grace — and he played it well until the very end.Family appreciates donations be made in Ed’s memory to Rock Steady Boxing Bucks County (PO Box 245, Jamison, PA 18929) where he was an enthusiastic boxer for many years in the program which “Fights Back” against Parkinson’s Disease.
EDWARD J. MAENNER of Philadelphia, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday April 22, 2025 at the age of 72. Edward was known as “Big Ed” to many friends and family members. He was born and raised in the Juniata Park neighborhood of Philadelphia on November 26, 1952 to Edward and Loretta (née McMackin) Maenner. He was the beloved husband of 50 years to his childhood sweetheart Gail (nee Stewart) Maenner.
A proud police officer for 33 years, Edward protected and served his community with unwavering integrity and compassion. He was involved in the Juniata Park Boys and Girls Club and was part owner of C&R Caterers; but it was at home where his heart truly lived — as a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud grandfather of fourteen.
Edward had a special way of lighting up a room with his smile and warmth. His positivity was infectious, and he had an unmatched ability to make people laugh and feel loved. He enjoyed
life’s simple pleasures: trips down the shore, bird watching, relaxing in front of the TV, Jack on the rocks, traveling, and, most of all, spending time with his family.
Edward leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness — values he instilled in all who knew him. His memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, but his light will continue to shine through those he loved.
Edward is survived by his wife Gail, his children Kathleen (Kevin) Szychulski, Edward (Nicole) Maenner, and Bridget (Joseph) Sanford; his siblings Mike (Jo-Anne) Maenner, Bonnie (Ed) Pemper, Andrew (Cathy) Maenner, Ruthie (Jim-deceased) Ayling, many nieces and nephews, and his fourteen grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his mother Loretta Maenner, father Edward Maenner, and sister Connie (Bill) Buck.
Submitted by: Andrew Maenner, Brother
ACTIVE DUTY DEATHS
Active Duty
CPL. WILLIAM H. ALSTON
JR. #8184, APPT. FEBRUARY 9TH 1998 CLASS 324, ASSIGNED 4TH, 24TH, POLICE DETENTION UNIT, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 6TH 2025 AT AGE 65.
Active Duty
SGT. MARK BROWN #8699
ASSIGNED AIRPORT APPT. JULY 15TH 1996 CLASS 317, PREVIOUSLY ASSIGNED 39TH, SOUTHWEST DETECTIVE, CENTRAL DETECTIVE, 16TH, POLICE RADIO, PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 22ND 2025 AT AGE 58.
Active Duty
SGT. RYAN MUNDRICK #8720
APPT. FEBRUARY 22ND, 2010 CLASS 357 ASSIGNED SUMMER INITIATIVE 24TH, 19TH, PROMOTED TO SGT. MARCH 7TH, 2017, ASSIGNED TO 3RD, PASSED AWAY ON MAY 7TH, 2025, AT AGE 42.
The following obituary was submitted by:
Name of Police Officer/Sheriff
Date of Death:
Lodge #5 Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police is asking any family member, Police Officer, or friend of a deceased Police Officer or Sheriff, who would like to submit an obituary to the Peace Officer magazine for print in the next issue to fill out the below form. If you have a photo of the deceased officer and would like to submit it please feel free to do so. The photos will be returned. Thank You!
If you are interested in writing about your loved one, your memories will be published in the Peace Officer Magazine. Send an e-mail with the Obituary to louis.campione@phila.gov
You may also call Lou Campione at (215) 823-9828 if you would prefer to speak with someone.
Who has your Six?
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Securities o ered through Lion Street Financial, LLC. (LSF), member FINRA & SIPC. Investment Advisory Services o ered through Lion Street Advisers, LLC.(LSA) , an investment adviser registered with the SEC. Financial Group of Philadelphia and the above rms are not a liated. The opinions / strategies above are for general information only, are not intended to provide speci c advice or recommendations for any individual and may not re ect those of Lion Street Financial LLC. This testimonial was given by a current client. No compensation was provided for this testimonial. There are no con icts of interest on the part of the person giving the testimonial. Featured testimonials do not represent the experience of all clients and are no guarantee as to clients’ future investment success.
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