U.S. Marshal Tells Police Grads They May Stop Next Terror Attack

COURT HOUSE — They stood straight and tall in carefully pressed uniforms at Middle Township Performing Arts Center as each recited the police officer’s oath.
On Jan. 27, after completing the 22-week Basic Course for Police Officers at Cape May County Police Academy, they were ready for all the challenges their new jobs would present, but did they realize they became part of the nation’s first defense against terrorism?
“The next terrorist attack will be stopped by one of the men and women of local law enforcement,” said U.S. Marshal James Plousis, keynote speaker, to the graduates.
Three of the 19 hijackers involved in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack “had previous contact with local law enforcement,” Plousis said.
The marshal recounted his career, and told the graduates their career could mirror it.
Plousis started his law enforcement career as a Woodbine police officer working one-man shifts. He then went to Ocean City Police Department, upward to sheriff in 1984. He was reelected five times, and was appointed in 2002 by President George W. Bush as marshal for the District of New Jersey.
Plousis told the class that the residential academy that had been their home since Aug. 31, 2009 helped form them into better trainees than those who attend day-only academies.
“When I go to academies, I tell the recruits, traditionally, we pay for their (police) time, but we really want their enthusiasm,” said Plousis. He cited examples of such enthusiasm as Sheriff Gary Schaffer and Academy Director Anthony Saduk.
“You are the best and most qualified in the state and probably in the country,” said Plousis. “You are truly fortunate to have that drive from the instructors; it spills over to the young men.”
“The challenge for them today is to be as enthused about police work as they are today. My challenge to you is keep the enthusiasm you have today. It will serve you well,” said Plousis.
“The richest men are the ones who enjoy their daily work. If you do not like police work, get out of police work. It’s not for everybody, but it is a very rewarding career. There is great opportunity at every level,” Plousis said.
He reminded family members that their new police officer would miss many family events, work long shifts, and need much nurturing from them.
“They really need your support,” said Plousis.
Class President Richard Fulham of Middletown Township Police Department said the graduates, from Passaic to Cape May counties, “Knowing the risk we would face, we are ready to stand up and take the job.”
He said the training “challenged us physically and mentally. We were tried through and through…”
Each recruit was “tested physically over and over again. We had to reach down inside ourselves,” Fulham said. “We will not give up or quit.”
Freeholder Vice Director Ralph Sheets Jr., retired Wildwood police chief, administered the oath of office.
Badges were then pinned, some by family members who were law enforcement officers.
Contact Campbell at (609) 886-8600 Ext 28 or at: al.c@cmcherald.com