POAM SPRING Update 2025
The POAM Spring Update offers a heartfelt message from President Jim Tignanelli as we head into Police Week 2025. This update reflects on the solemn remembrance of fallen officers, highlights the bravery of those recognized for heroic acts, and shares important reminders about upcoming events, including the Candlelight Vigil, Tune Inn gathering, and convention plans.
Police Week in Washington, DC
I call this the “Spring Message,” even though that may be just a bit presumptive! The weather has been a “mixed bag” of late. Needless to say, it is Spring on the POAM schedule.
Many of us will be packing up for the drive to Washington, DC, for Police Week. I have often described the Candlelight Vigil, which takes place each May 13th, as one of the best and worst days of the year. So many memories. Some bring smiles, and many bring tears. This year, five officers who suffered line-of-duty deaths in 2024 will be placed on the wall. Brad Reckling, William Butler, and Mohamed Said were all killed by gunfire. None were involved in what might traditionally be deemed a “gunfight.” Two others, Joel Popp and Daniel Kerstetter, were struck by cars while stationary. If you ever have the opportunity to visit DC, please take the time to visit the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and Museum. If it’s Police Week, even better. Those of you who are currently serving should be reminded that Michigan led the nation in officers physically assaulted in 2023, with 1,850. We hire human beings who choose this occupation. All have the same desire: to do their job the best they are able and to go home at the end of their shift.
Honoring Heroic Deeds
On May 22nd this year, we will recognize more than thirty law enforcement officers for heroic deeds that they performed in thirteen different incidents. All included the taking of or the saving of a life. Human beings? As I mentioned earlier—yes, they are; all of them! When you read of or hear of their actions on those “work days” in 2024, you will be overwhelmed, I promise you. We at the Police Officers Association of Michigan see all of our members as family. We do all we are able to represent you in Lansing, in DC, and in your local Human Resources department. From our terrific office staff to our twenty-eight servicing reps to our four attorneys, each incident is the most important thing we have to prepare for each day. Our extended legal plan is providing representation to more of our members than ever before!
Upcoming Events & Reminders
We will be hosting a “small gathering” at the Tune Inn on Pennsylvania SE on 5/14 from 4–11 p.m. Join in the camaraderie and the memories. As for the convention, the Amway Grand advises that rooms are at a premium—perhaps even sold out already! Check POAM.net for the schedule of events and, just for drill, download the POAM app! The app offers “push notifications.” It is a tremendous tool, and you can register online too!
– JT