The NJ Police Chief Magazine - Vol. 28, Number 3 | Page 5

FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT

FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT

CHIEF JOHN ZEBROWSKI SAYREVILLE PD
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | November 2021
The month of November is host to a number of important public observances which have significant impact to our membership , our officers and other employees , and their families . Two of these observances are historically significant honoring those who fought to protect the very principles upon which our Nation was founded . The third is significant in that it is a call for public support for the families and loved ones when those who served our country and communities are lost to suicide .
On November 19 , 1863 , President Abraham Lincoln delivered one of the most important and influential speeches in American history . Although Lincoln was not even the featured speaker at Gettysburg , his two-minute speech is widely considered as one of the major factors in the unification of a clearly divided nation after the end of the Civil War . By invoking the principles of equality found in the Declaration of Independence , Lincoln connected the sacrifices of those who participated in our country ’ s Civil War with the overarching goal to preserve the Union and provide direction for the soul of the United States .
In November of 1919 , President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day . This date was significant as it marked the end of hostilities for what was then called “ The Great War ,” considered the “ war to end all wars ”, better known to us as World War I . Wilson proclaimed that the “ day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country ’ s service and with gratitude for the victory , both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice .” In 1954 , the holiday was renamed “ Veterans Day ,” expanding its scope to include veterans of all U . S . wars .
We also recognize that , at times , there is a significant cost for such service in terms of wellness for those who served and for those whose service continues as law enforcement officers . That brings me to the third significant date in November .
The Saturday before Thanksgiving has been designated as International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day bringing attention to this tragic occurrence and calling for more support to the surviving families and to the members of the law enforcement agency who lost a loved one or a friend . The day is used as a global platform to continue to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and to on the need to increase available resources to help survivors cope after a suicide . Unfortunately , when someone is lost to suicide it impacts those who knew and loved them . Coping with grief and trauma is difficult to handle .
As you are aware , suicide is the number 1 officer safety issue for our profession and there remains a need for additional research to better understand the risk factors , some of which are also common to military service , and to provide the resources for compassionate treatment . Our Association is strongly committed to both and continues to work tirelessly to promote and foster opportunities to enhance the wellness of our members , their officers and support for their families .
In closing , November has become a month of giving thanks and showing appreciation for service to our Nation and our community . We are proud to say that a number of our members have or continue to serve our Nation while also serving their communities . We salute them and recognize their contributions in defense of our Nation .
Thank you for your service !
Also , on behalf of the Board of Officers and the Staff of the NJSACOP I would also like to take this opportunity to wish you , and your families a very safe and healthy Thanksgiving Holiday .
Chief John Zebrowski NJSACOP President
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