APD Annual Reports - 2016 Annual Report | Page 43

Operations Support Division- Special Events

• The Homeland Security / Special Events Unit reviewed 178 special event requests.
• The Dallas Cowboys hosted First Responder Appreciation Day.
• The Auxiliary Mounted Unit participated in more than 40 events.
The department’ s Homeland Security / Special Events Unit handles all requests related to hosting special events in Arlington that require law enforcement vetting and staffing plans. In 2016, the unit coordinated 178 special events and hosted several major national events such as the WWE WrestleMania 32, Paramount Movies World Premier of 13 Hours: The Secrete Soldiers of Benghazi, and the American League Divisional Playoff Series with the Texas Rangers.
The Auxiliary Mounted Unit participated in more than 40 events across the community including concerts, funerals, parades, and school events. Six officers participate in the unit as an ancillary duty and own their horses. The department provides bimonthly training and equipment for the unit. The mounted unit also participated in the Cowboy Cops Rodeo in Fort Worth that benefits Special Olympics.
The Dallas Cowboys honored first responders from around the state during the home opener with the New York Giants. Over 600 first responders were on hand and participated with the National Anthem and half-time show. The remembrance event highlighted those who lost their lives 15 years ago in the 9 / 11 terror attacks. The Cowboys organization routinely honors first responders on an annual basis.
Arlington, Texas Police Department

43