FBINAA JULYAUG MAG.2018

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J U LY 2 0 1 8 A U G

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAPLAIN by Jeff Kruithoff The FBINAA Memory Roll A t the Summer Training Conference in Quebec this past July, the attendees took a moment to reflect around the Memory Roll of those classmates who have passed in the previous year, or their passing just came to the attention of the National Office. Remembering these fellow classmates who have passed brings us back to pleasant memories, and shared experiences; however also pro- vides an opportunity to honor their participation in the finest Law Enforcement Organization today. One hundred and thirty-four fellow classmates were remembered this year ranging from Session 50 to Session 269. These classmates’ names were read during the opening ceremony as part of the tradi- tional Memory Roll held each year. This Memory Roll ceremony is very solemn and included a uniform officer from the Conference Host Chapter lighting a candle and saluting the memory table described below. Having a close friend remembered this year, I knew of all of the emotion and feeling of loss by family, friends, and coworkers during the services held at the time. It is difficult to grasp that this happened 133 more times around the world as members of our association passed on. All the members honored in the ceremony cause the audience to reflect and remember, but this year two names had special men- tion during the Memory Roll. The first was Sgt. Steve Perez from Ses- sion 210, who died in his personal vehicle while attempting to get to work at his station house during Hurricane Harvey. His vehicle became trapped in high water, and Sgt. Perez drowned in the chaos of the storm. Also remembered was William E. Schnakenberg from Session 118. William’s son Robert is a graduate of Session 251 carrying on a FBINAA tradition in that family. As the National Chaplain, I have been honored to represent the membership in conveying thoughts and prayers on your behalf to many of these families. I take that responsibility as my most treasured task of being the Chaplain. It also supports that in times like these, we can find strength and solace by leaning on our faith. As a Christ fol- lower, I would encourage all members to reach out in times of pain and loss to God as the source of peace in the chaos of life.

The tradition of the Memory Table is very humbling, and it does us well to review that each year. 1. The table, covered with a white cloth, symbolizes the loyalty and commitment of our fellow graduates throughout their career of service to their respective communities. 2. An encased and folded American Flag is placed on the table to represent the courage and sacrifice of our fellow graduates as they protected our freedom and provided a safe environment for the citizens they served. 3. A single red rose in a vase is placed on the table to symbolize the family and friends of our fellow graduates left behind. 4. A police hat and badge is placed on the table to symbolize the absence of our fellow graduates. 5. A white candle is placed on the table to be lit during the service as a constant reminder that our fellow graduates are not and will not be forgotten. 6. A framed list providing the name, session, and date of passing of each of our fellow graduates is posted on the table as a visible reminder of our fellow graduates and friends who have passed on. The Memory Table, as always, remained on display throughout the 2018 Conference so attendees could review, reflect, and remember friends who had passed on. For those who could not attend the Train- ing Conference in Quebec, please take a moment to review and reflect on the following list of classmates. Remember them fondly, and keep their family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

God Bless,

Jeff Kruithoff, Chaplain

C O M I N G S O O N FBIN A A MEMBER SURVEY The FBINAA will be sending out a survey to all of our members in the near future. We want to hear from you. Please take a few moments and let us know what is important to you to keep our Association strong and relevant.

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