Police Officer is a Warrior

Recently, I was on a police website forum discussing law enforcement tactics and officer survival. One individual wrote that “cops aren’t warriors nor should they be. Perhaps take a class on sociology, the role of police in society, or the criminal justice system. And that I should check out Robert Peel and principles for modern policing.”  My immediate thought was that this person was not a law enforcement officer. Furthermore, this person did not understand what a true warrior is. 

Warriors protect society; they are servants. They put themselves in harm’s way. To do this, they must be appropriately trained. The skills needed for officer survival are perishable, hence the need for continual training. A warrior treats people fairly and with respect. Again, they are there to protect and devote their resources to deterring crime and apprehending criminals. A warrior operates under a strict set of rules. A use-of-force matrix and court rulings are in place, and the warrior follows these guidelines. Warriors are not stat-driven. Warriors are enthusiastic about their role in society. They understand that all life is precious. 

There is a war out there on the streets. Not everyone is attacking the police, but to those who are, warriors are needed to protect each other and the citizens of their responsible areas. Law enforcement officers are being killed, and to survive, a certain mindset must be maintained.

What was the norm in 1829, when Robert Peel established the Metropolitan Police Force in London, has changed. Yes, the fundamental premise that officers are issued badges, are accountable for their actions, seek public approval, and coexist within society remains the same. However, Peel could never have envisioned how violent society has become and the additional responsibilities that law enforcement faces in the 21st century.  

After thinking about what was initially written in that forum, I believe the writer is confused and somehow convinced that being a warrior is being a bully. That is very far from the truth. Being disciplined, suspicious, inquisitive, and thorough may seem heavy-handed to the uninformed. In reality, these are the attributes of survival. Nobody calls the police when they are having a good day. Paul Whitesell stated, “We are the only animal that goes into another’s lair to conduct business. Have you ever gone to a circus? There is a reason the lion tamers are in the ring first. It is to establish dominance. If not, you would be witnessing a different show.” 

To maintain peace, a warrior must have command presence. Command presence does not mean being rude, condescending, or brutal. It means demonstrating that one is prepared for confrontation; if it happens, one is knowledgeable and portrays professionalism. Isn’t that what a victim wants when the police respond?

Peel’s most often quote is, “The police are public, and the public is the police.” Law enforcement officers are hired from the public and then trained to perform the task of policing their fellow citizens. Enforcing laws for fellow citizens is one of the most challenging jobs. In a free society, people must obey the rules they have created and support the group they have hired to enforce those laws. On occasion, criminals do not freely submit to this authority. It is at these times that a warrior is needed. The adequately trained warrior knows they are held accountable for their actions, understand engagement rules, and are confident to be in harm’s way.

Being a warrior is not negative. Warrior displays pride in their profession, seek to better themselves, and understand the challenges and hardships of law enforcement. 

To this forum participant, I say go to your local police department and request a ride-along. See your city through the windshield of a marked police car.