FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
CHIEF EDWARD M . KERR SPRING LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | June 2024
Recently , I traveled to Bastogne , Belgium with 25 other police executives to experience and become immersed in the experiential learning program centered around the prolonged siege and battle known to history as “ The Battle of the Bulge .” This is one of many professional development opportunities offered by the Association that I ’ ve had the opportunity to attend . After returning home from this special course , I felt both inspired by the leadership exhibited by our military commanders , as well as awe for the heroic way these leaders and their troops conducted themselves in circumstance of almost unimaginable difficulty .
There were a number of lessons learned from a study of this campaign . We discussed and explored best practices of leading in times of crisis . This was made possible by placing the participants in the footsteps of the major and subordinate commanders involved in the Battle . We were also led by our facilitators ( Pat Schuber and Dave Annets ) in discussions about Strategic Planning , Decision Making , Command and Control , Communication , Tactical Flexibility , Team Building , Innovation and Creativity , Vision and Mission , Morale , and a wide variety of other topics .
Although the decisions that today ’ s police leaders make on most days pale in comparison to the situation faced by the military leaders we studied , there are important lessons to be learned from these various leaders and the courage they displayed when confronted with obstacles .
Many thanks to Pat , Dave , and the NJSACOP for providing such an eye opening opportunity to learn from the world ’ s best leaders . It was an unforgettable experience .
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