George Washington Memorial Parkway Road Closures

Southbound George Washington Memorial Parkway traffic has been diverted onto Route 123, and the ramp from Route 123 onto southbound GW Parkway will remain closed until further notice.

Motorists can enter the GW Parkway southbound at Spout Run. It is unknown how long the repairs will take, but work will continue throughout the day, weather permitting. All northbound lanes of GW Parkway are open.

To assist with travel into Washington, D.C. recommendations for alternate routes from 495 into DC and to Reagan National Airport are as follows:

495 to Exit 31 Eastbound 97 (Georgia Ave.)

495 to Exit 33 Eastbound 185 (Connecticut Ave.)

495 to Exit 41 (Clara Barton Parkway)

495 to Exit 50 Rt. 50 (Arlington Blvd) towards DC

495 to Exit 52 (236) follow to North Washington Street go north to DC or Airport

495 to Northbound 395

Concert for Valor - Prohibited Items

 

The following items will be prohibited ath the concert:

 

 

• Alcohol
• Ammunition
• Animals other than helper/guide dogs
• Balloons
• Bicycles
• Hard shelled coolers
• Explosives/fireworks
• Glass containers
• Illegal firearms
• Laser pointers
• Mace/pepper spray
• Folding tables, tents, chairs (and other items that could be considered "structures")
• Weapons
• Unmanned aerial systems
• Any other items determed to be a potnetial hazard

The following additional items are prohibited within the reserved seating and ticketed areas of the concert, the area approximately from 3^rd Street to 6^th Street, between Madison Drive NW to the north and Jefferson Drive SW to the south.

• Aerosols
• All firearms

Road Closures and Logistics Announced for Concert for Valor

 

Contact: Mike Litterst, National Park Service, 202-245-4676

Contact: Sgt. Lelani Woods, U.S. Park Police, 202-619-7163

Washington –The National Park Service and the United States Park Police in cooperation with local, state and federal law enforcement, public safety and transportation agencies, have developed security, logistics and access plans for HBO's permitted Concert for Valor. The concert will take place on Tuesday, November 11 from 7-10 p.m. on the National Mall. Click here for a map of concert venue, including road closures and access points.

Road Closures

The following roads will be closed and off-limits to vehicles starting at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11:

• Constitution Avenue NW from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to 18th Street NW
• Madison Drive NW from 3th Street NW to 15th Street NW
• Jefferson Drive SW from 3rd Street SW to 15th Street SW
• Independence Avenue SW from 3rd Street SW to 17th Street SW
• Maryland Avenue SW from Independence Avenue SW to 7th Street SW
• 3rd Street from Constitution Avenue NW to C Street SW
• 4th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to C Street SW
• 6th Street NW from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to Constitution Avenue NW
• 6th Street SW from Independence Avenue SW to C Street SW
• 7th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to C Street SW
• 10th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to Independence Avenue SW
• 12th Street ramp from I-395 to Pennsylvania Avenue NW
• 14th Street from E Street NW to C Street SW
• 15th Street from E Street NW to Maine Avenue SW
• 17th Street from C Street NW to Independence Avenue SW

Additional closures will be in place in advance of the concert to allow for setup of the venue. These include:

• 4th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to C Street SW will be closed from 12:01 a.m. Monday, November 3 through Wednesday, November 12 at 10 a.m.

• Madison Drive NW from 3rd Street NW to 4th Street NW will be closed from 6 a.m. on November 10 through 10 a.m. on November 12.

Getting There

Concert-goers are strongly advised to use public transportation.

All Metro stations will be open from 5 a.m. until midnight on November 11 EXCEPT Smithsonian, which will be closed because it is within the security zone for the concert. Selected Metro stations near the National Mall will remain open after midnight, if needed, until all passengers in line are accommodated. See Metro's Concert for Valor Metrorail Service Information page for full details.

ADA Parking and Shuttle Service

ADA shuttle bus service will be provided from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. on November 11 for concert attendees. Prearranged ADA parking is available at RFK Stadium Lot 3. Passengers in need of ADA service and their attendants will be dropped off on Independence Avenue SW at 6th Street SW. Parking and transportation arrangements can be made at www.ustreetparking.com.

Public Access

The following public entry points will open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2014, and will remain open until the concert venue can no longer accommodate additional people.

• 4th Street NW and Madison Drive NW (credentialed media, ticketed and VIP guests ONLY)
• 4th Street SW and Jefferson Drive SW (credentialed media, ticketed and VIP guests ONLY)
• 7th Street NW and Madison Drive SW
• 7th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW
• 12th Street NW and Madison Drive NW
• 12th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW
• 14th Street NW and Madison Drive NW
• 15th Street NW and Constitution Avenue NW

The following public entry points will open at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2014, and will remain open until the concert venue can no longer accommodate additional people.

• 15th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW
• 17th Street NW and Constitution Avenue NW

Security Screenings

All attendees, including general public and ticketed guests, are subject to a thorough security screening before entering the concert venue. Please allow additional time for the security screening, as it is expected that lines may be long.

Automated Notification System

To receive text alerts, advisories, traffic information, and additional updates about the concert via the Nixle community information service, text VALOR2014 to 888777.

Prohibited Items

The following items will be prohibited at the concert:

Alcohol, Ammunition, Animals other than helper/guide dogs, Balloons, Bicycles, Hard shelled coolers, Explosives/fireworks, Glass containers, Illegal firearms, Laser pointers, Mace/pepper spray, Folding tables, tents, chairs (and other items that could be considered "structures"), Weapons, Unmanned aerial systems, Any other items determined to be a potential safety hazard.

Concert Information

For information about the Concert for Valor, including lineup and schedule for the show, visit www.theconcertforvalor.com.

Explosives Roundtable

On June 12 2014, The Preparedness Leadership Council International (PLC) hosted a roundtable discussion in Washington, D.C., at the United States Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility. Charles Guddemi, a federal law enforcement officer, led the discussion on “Explosives ‘Left of Boom’,” which addressed topics related to preventing, detecting, and deterring incidents involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Based on that discussion, surveys were sent to members of the preparedness community as well as the public to find out how they define success in terms of IEDs, which investments they believe should be made, how they perceive current and future threats, and perhaps most importantly how they weigh protection versus privacy.

"When those towers went down, the earth shook on both islands…. And now, most of us spend all of our waking and sleeping hours defending our liberties." – Charles Guddemi (referring to New York after the 9/11 attacks).


Preparedness Leadership Council International Report: Explosives "Left of Boom"

Officers Complete Motor Training School

Motor Officer Robert Steenland demonstrates cone course

The United States Park Police (USPP) hosted a 2-week Motor training school for law enforcement officers.

Riders from U.S. Park Police, Rockville City PD, and Charlotte-Mecklenburg PD, North Carolina successfully completed an advanced riding program consisting of obstacle courses, cone courses, speed drills, and power breaking maneuvers.

A graduation ceremony took place on October 3, 2014, at the Anacostia Operations Facility in Washington, DC.

Officer Carl Hiott of the U.S. Park Police received acknowledgement for obtaining the highest combined score on the written test and two timed cone courses.

Ofc. Hiott (center) is congratulated for obtaining top score during Motor Training School. Left -Right Lt. T. Reid, Ofc. E. Sinkeldam, Capt. S. Booker, Ofc. D. Fowler, Major J. Burks, Ofc. R. Steenland and Lt. M. Adamchik

CONTOMS Ceremony





Allen Yee and Chris Harding, Chesterfield Fire, Ric Smith, Buckley Fire, James Laska, U.S. Park Police, Erica Carney, Washington University EMS Physician

   On September 26, 2014, the United States Park Police hosted the 117th Counter Narcotics Terrorism Operational Medical Support (CONTOMS) Graduation Ceremony at the Anacostia Operations Facility in Washington, DC.

Forty-six (46) members from various agencies partnered together for a one-week EMT-Tactical (EMT-T) Course.

The course consisted of a 56-hour continuing education module for providers who are already trained at the EMT-B level or higher.

The training included classroom work, practical skills laboratories, and a Field Training Exercise (FTX).

Topics covered include:

• Medical Threat Assessment

• Downed Officer Rescue

• Care Under Fire

• Special Equipment and Kits

• Toxic Hazards

• Medical Support of Specific Operations


The History of CONTOMS

USPP SWAT Teams Compete In Iron Team Event

Officer Michael Fermaint lifting stone barbell during Prince Georges County’s fifth annual Iron Team Competition

On Wednesday, October 1, 2014, members of the United States Park Police (USPP) Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit participated in the 5th annual Iron Team Competition hosted by the Prince George's County Police Department.

A total of 34 teams entered the competition, to include two USPP SWAT teams, other local police department SWAT/ERT Teams, Military Special Ops teams, and teams from as far as northern New Jersey. The competition consisted of numerous strength, endurance, and cardio challenges.

USPP Team 1 consisting of Officer Michael Ocetnik, Officer Michael Fermaint, Officer Jack Edington, and Officer Todd Monfette finished 5th out of 34 teams. All unit members who participated, volunteered, coached, and supported the event did an outstanding job of representing themselves, the unit, and the Force.

Two From DOI Complete Executive Leader Course

Rob MacLean, Acting Chief of the United States Park Police, and Kristen Oleyte, the Department of the Interior's Senior Advisor to the United States Pacific Command





Kristen Oleyte (the Department of the Interior's Senior Advisor to the United States Pacific Command) and Rob MacLean (Acting Chief of the United States Park Police), completed the Executive Leaders Program at the Naval Postgraduate School’s (NPS) Center for Homeland Defense and Security on August 14.

The goal of the Executive Leaders Program is to enhance senior leaders’ capacity to develop policies and strategies and while strengthening working relationships across the jurisdictional boundaries of regions, agencies, local-state-tribal-federal governments and the private sector. Students study the interdisciplinary concepts that comprise homeland security.

Participants met for four one-week intensive sessions over a nine-month period at the NPS Center for Homeland Defense and Security in Monterey, California. The 31 participants represent a snapshot of homeland security across the country and include professionals from the Department of Homeland Security, and agencies within it, as well as emergency management, the military, law enforcement, fire safety, state and municipal governments, public health, and the private sector.

The Executive Leaders Program is part of a series of graduate and executive level education programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), National Preparedness Directorate, FEMA, and developed and conducted by the NPS Center for Homeland Defense and Security.

Awards and Promotions Ceremony Held




Acting Chief of Police Robert D. MacLean, Sergeant David Hurley, Officer Ryan Evasick, Sergeant Keaton Wright and Associate Director for Visitor and Resource Protection Cam Sholly.
Photo taken by Tami Heilemann, Department of Interior


On Thursday, September 18th, the United States Park Police held an awards and promotion ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the U.S. Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility in Washington, DC. A total of 22 awards were conferred to recognize Force personnel for their service and continued contributions to the public. Awards including a Chief’s Certificate of Appreciation, eight Unit Citations, three Chief’s Certificates for Outstanding Police Service, and ten Lifesaving Awards.

Promotions included:

*Officer Pasquale Tesi, who was promoted to the rank of sergeant in the San Francisco Field Office

*Sergeant David Williams, who was promoted to lieutenant in the San Francisco Field Office

*Captain Noreen Schirmer, who was promoted to major and commander of the San Francisco Field Office, and

*Captain Charles Guddemi, who was promoted to major, Icon Protection Branch.

Crew Of Eagle Two Makes Two Same-Day Rescues

On September 1st, USPP Lieutenant Simeon Klebaner and Ranger Michelle Schonzeit went hiking on Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park when they came upon a severely injured hiker.

While attempting to help the hiker out of the backcountry, they became concerned that wet terrain and potential storms would impede them in their efforts and might also cause additional injury to the victim. Klebaner accordingly contacted the Park Police Aviation Unit and asked for a helicopter extrication.

Pilot Officer Evasick and Rescue Technicians Sergeant Tolson and Sergeant Robbins responded in Eagle Two and conducted a hoist rescue of the injured hiker.

Once the injured hiker was safely delivered to the hospital, U.S. Park Police units responded to a call of an injured 12-year-old with a traumatic leg injury on the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls Park. Eagle Two headed to that location, where they made another hoist rescue.

The Aviation Unit has completed 16 hoist rescues since this past January, surpassing 2013’s ten hoist rescues conducted throughout the course of the year.

Navy Air Force Half Marathon & Navy 5 Miler - September 14, 2014

The Navy-Air Force Half Marathon is an annual race hosted by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR). This prestigious race began 11 years ago as the Navy 5 Miler and has grown to about 5,000 runners! The year 2014 will mark the 3rd year for the Half Marathon and the 11th year for the 5 miler.

The event will take place on Sunday, September 14 at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. It starts and finishes at the Washington Monument, followed by an awards ceremony.

Road Closures

15th Street from Constitution Avenue to Independence Avenue will be closed at 4:30 am until approximately 11:00 am.

Roads leading to East and West Potomac Park will be closed from 5:50 am until approximately 11:00 am. Access will be allowed to East Potomac Park from either I-395N or SW Freeway

*A two way traffic pattern will be established on Ohio Drive to the exit of the Hains Point Golf Course

All vehicles exiting East Potomac Park will need to do so via the SE Freeway from Buckeye Drive.

Rock Creek Parkway will be closed from 5:50 am to approximately 11:00 am. Access will be allowed to Thompson's Boat Center.

There will be a two way traffic pattern at the ramp from K Street to southbound Rock Creek Parkway to access the Kennedy Center

Beach Drive will be closed northbound and southbound starting at Porter Street 5:50 am to 11:00 am.

**Exception** traffic will be able to exit the National Zoo and proceed northbound. Memorial Bridge will be closed at 5:50 am and should be reopened by 10:00 am.

One Year later: Remembering the D.C. Navy Yard




Washington Navy Yard survivor Ms. Jennifer Bennett and U.S. Park Police Officer Matthew Cooney

  On Wednesday, September 10, 2014, just days before the 1-year anniversary of the Washington Navy Yard shooting, Ms. Jennifer Bennett, United States Park Police Officer Matthew Cooney, Pilot Sergeant Kenneth Burchell, and Rescue Technician Sergeant David Tolson reunited at the “Eagle’s Nest” to reflect on the Navy Yard shooting and their forever bond.

Officer Cooney had provided first aid to Ms. Bennett’s gunshot wound on the roof of Building 197 as they awaited the Eagle to airlift her to safety. Officer Cooney presented Ms. Bennett with a patch from the uniform shirt he wore on September 16, 2013. In awe, Ms. Bennett asked “what happened to your shirt?” Officer Cooney advised her that the shirt was badly damaged and had to be destroyed. However, he saved a patch for himself and a patch for her as a small token of remembrance and resilience. With an embrace, Ms. Bennett expressed how special and meaningful the patch was to her.

U.S. Park Police Presents Award

Major J. Burks, Major S. Fear, Matt Birnbaum;FLIR Director of Sales, Jenny Brooks; FLIR Mid-Atlantic Territory Manager, Major C. Guddemi and Captain S. Booker

On Friday, September 5, 2014, the United Stated Park Police held an awards ceremony recognizing and honoring FLIR for their dedicated service. FLIR representatives and U.S. Park Police officials gathered at the "Eagle’s Nest" located in Anacostia Park to commemorate FLIR’s contributions and continued support with Inaugural celebrations, 4th of July celebrations, and numerous special events.

U.S. Park Police’s Eagle 2 is equipped with a FLIR 8500 infrared and color sensor that provides stable thermal imaging as well as color video that assists with a range of law enforcement and rescue operations.

Pioneers in thermal imaging FLIR Systems, Inc.R designs, develops, manufactures, markets, and distributes technologies that enhance perception and awareness.

2014 Events DC Nation’s Triathlon

The 9th Annual Events DC Nation’s Triathlon to Benefit The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society will take place Sunday, September 7, 2014 in the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

It features a course that winds through Washington, DC’s monument corridor in the shadow of the nation’s best known memorials and national treasures. This International Distance triathlon, sanctioned by the USAT, includes a 1.5k swim in the Potomac River, 40k bike course through DC, and a 10k run through Washington, DC’s historical landmarks with a spectacular finish!

Date: Sunday, September 7, 2014
Time: 7:00 AM
Venue: Washington, DC
Address: West Potomac Park

There will be traffic closures in effect until 2:00 pm to include the following:

Most of East Potomac Park and all of West Potomac Park will be closed for this event from approximately 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. The only exception is a two way traffic pattern will be in affect to allow individuals to access Hains Point Golf Course and Tennis Bubble.

**Access can only be gained via the ramps from the Freeway to East Potomac Park. The only way to exit East Potomac Park will be from Buckeye Drive to the SE Freeway.

Maine Avenue will be closed west of East Basin Drive, from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Independence Avenue will be closed west of 15th Street, from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Rock Creek Parkway will be closed in its entirety. South of Virginia Avenue, will be closed from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. North of Virginia Avenue, will be closed from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm.

**The only exception is there will be one lane allowing a two way traffic flow from the ramp from K Street to southbound Rock Creek Parkway (to allow visitation to and from Thompson Boat Center).

Beach Drive will be closed south of Porter Street, with no access to or from The National Zoo from Beach Drive.

Traffic can flow south on Cathedral Avenue NW and up Shoreham Hill to Calvert Street NW.

Course Map:http://bit.ly/1redT89

U.S. Park Police - Cold Case

Sketch of deceased boy

The U.S. Park Police seeks assistance from the public in identifying a deceased boy found on the Baltimore Washington Parkway in 1981.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and U.S. Park Police Investigations Unit are currently working together to find out who this young man was and are looking for the public’s help.

For more information on this case please visit The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Blog

2014 Aircrew of the Year



Photo provided by Ryan Mason - Airborne Productions, courtesy of the Airborne Law Enforcement Association. Pictured ALEA President Kurt Frisz, Pilot Sergeant Kenneth Burchell, Rescue Technician Sergeant David Tolson and Airbus Helicopters Law Enforcement Market Sales Manager Ed Van Winkle

 On Friday, July 18, 2014, United States Park Police Pilot Sergeant Kenneth Burchell and Rescue Technician Sergeant David Tolson received the Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA) Captain ‘Gus’ Crawford Memorial Aircrew of the Year Award for 2014. Captain Gus Crawford, a law enforcement aviation pioneer, was the commanding officer of the New York Police Department (NYPD) Aviation Bureau at the time of its founding. The Captain ‘Gus’ Crawford Memorial Aircrew of the Year Award acknowledges a pilot and/or crewmember(s) whose flying efforts and proficiency characterize ALEA’s motto, “To Serve and Protect from the Air.”

For the nomination period of April 1, 2013 – March 31, 2014, the United States Park Police was nominated twice for the flying efforts during the Navy Yard shooting on September 16, 2013.

On September 16, 2013, a lone gunman entered Building 197 at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, DC, and began shooting personnel at the Navy Yard, creating an active shooter incident. As calls for help were received, multiple law enforcement agencies responded. The United States Park Police helicopter Eagle I, crewed by Pilot/Sergeant Kenneth Burchell and Rescue Technician/Sergeant David Tolson, was requested by the Washington Metropolitan Police Department to assist. The Navy Yard is located directly across the Anacostia River from their hangar, also known as “the Eagle’s Nest.” A request was made, by Sergeant Tolson, for additional aircraft due to the possibility of a mass casualty incident. Due to the proximity of the Washington Navy Yard to Washington/Reagan National Airport, Eagle I notified Washington Tower, who in turn diverted air traffic from the immediate area and designated Eagle I as “airboss,” for aircraft coordination in the Navy Yard area.

On this tragic day, the crew of Eagle I initially assisted with aerial reconnaissance and perimeter control, simultaneously becoming Air Traffic Control. The crew then switched roles for the deployment of SWAT personnel and reconfigured for the extraction of a critically injured female, which resulted in a medevac transport. The crew returned to deploy another SWAT officer and extract the final three survivors. In the final phase, they returned to reconnaissance and perimeter control. Air Operations terminated with a total of 5.5 hours flight time. All of these operations were conducted with an active shooter below them.

For these brave acts of resilience, the Airborne Law Enforcement Association proudly awarded Sergeant/Pilot Kenneth Burchell and Sergeant/Rescue Technician David Tolson the 2014 Captain “Gus” Crawford Memorial Air Crew of the Year Award. Officer/Rescue Technician Michael Abate was also presented an ALEA Presidential Citation for his roles in the incident.

National Night Out

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Cathy Lanier, District of Columbia Mayor Vincent C. Gray and United States Park Police Acting Chief Rob D. MacLean welcome the community to the 31st annual National Night Out events in Washington, D.C. 

In 1984, an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities was introduced to creat police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie, and send a message to criminals to let them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

 

The National Association of Town Watch (NATW), a non-profit organization dedicated to the develoopment and promotion of various crime prevention programs including neighborhood watch groups, law enforcement agencies, State and regional crime prevention associations, and other groups devoted to safter communities, introduced National Night Out, "America's Night Out Against Crime."

Joining in the celebration of 31 years of National Night Out service, the United States Park Police Field Offices participated in the 2014 National Night Out program on Tuesday, August 5, 2014.

U.S. Park Police officers from Washington, DC, participated in activities in River Terrace Park, Fort Circle Park, and various locations in Alexandria, VA. The San Francisco Field Office joined the San Francisco Police Department and Fire Department at the Ernest Ingold Boys and Girls Club to interact with the community and promote agency awareness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National Night Out

The Untied States Park Police (USPP) invite you to participate in free National Night Out events

on Tuesday, August 5, 2014

 

River Terrace Park @ Benning Road and Anacostia Ave. NE

5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Enjoy a bike ride led by USPP and Metropolitan Police Department that highlights the Anacostia River Trail, Face painting, free bike safety checks and tune-ups, games, music and a showing of the “Lego Movie” at 8:30 PM

 

 

Fort Circle Park @ South Dakota Ave. between Galloway & Gallatin Streets NE

6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Experience the historic, cultural and natural resources of Fort Circle

Festivities will include giveaways promoting youth safety to include youth finger printing “Identa-Kits”

 

Alexandria, VA

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

USPP Officers from the George Washington Memorial Park Station will visit:

 

Nauck Neighborhood at Drew Model Elementary School,  Arlington VA

New Alexandria at 6422 Wood Haven Road

Belle View Condos at 1204 Belle View Blvd

Buck ell Manor 6800 block of Duke Drive

 

USPP and Alexandria PD will team up at Charles Houston Rec. Center 

located at 905 Wythe St.  

for a obstacle fun course for the kids to enjoy

 

 

 

Person of Interest

The United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch is seeking information regarding the individual in the above photographs. The individual pictured may be of assistance to the United States Park Police with information regarding an assault that occurred in Glover Archbold Park located in NW Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April, 1, 2014 at approximately 8:00 pm.

Anyone with information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the following individual pictured above is asked to call the Criminal Investigations Branch 202-610-8730.

There are currently No Outstanding Warrants placed on this individual by this Agency.

River Safety Enforcement




Officers from Montgomery County PD, Maryland Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Park Police look over a cliff in search of illegal swimmers and distressed hikers

 

On Sunday, July 13, 2014, the United States Park Police, Montgomery County Police, and Maryland Department of Natural Resources combined efforts to participate in river patrols along the Potomac River Gorge. Patrols were directed at Lock 6, Billy Goat Trail Section A, Olmsted Island, Difficult Run, and the Cow Hoof Rock area with the primary goal of sharing river safety messages to the public.

Throughout the day, officers encountered visitors hiking in restricted areas as well as illegally swimming and bathing in the river. Officers also assisted two visitors with ankle injuries, often caused by slipping on rocks.

The primary goal of the joint agency efforts were to protect life, enhance visitor safety and protect natural resources.

Enforcement objectives for all agencies are to educate and inform visitors of the safety precautions and risk factors when disobeying signs of danger.

Citations and warnings were issued for swimming/bathing. Visitors are urged to obey all signs.

United States Park Police Hosts Awards Ceremony for Boy Scouts of America

On June 12, 2014, the National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts of America (NCAC,BSA) on behalf of the Boy Scouts of America National Office presented Navy Captain Edward "Chip" Zawislak with the Honor Medal with Crossed Palms, the highest recognition granted by the Boy Scouts. Captain Zawislak is a Boy Scouts of America Scoutmaster of Troop 903 in Calvert County, MD, and was also a victim of the September 16, 2013, Washington Navy Yard shooting. He was stranded on the rooftop of the Building 197 with gunshot victim Jennifer Bennett and Makonnen Eyob and Michael Jackson.

The ceremony was hosted by the United States Park Police at the Anacostia Aviation Hanger, The Eagles Nest. The importance of the ceremony location with the Eagle closely behind and Navy Yard Building 197 in the background brought back many memories for those present.

Attending the ceremony in support of Captain Zawislak was, Makonnen Eyob, U.S. Park Police Officer Matthew Cooney (who aided in the medical care and rescue of those stranded) and shooting victim Jennifer Bennett.



Navy Captain Edward 'Chip' Zawislak Honor Medal with Crossed Palms recipient 



Remembering a Fallen Officer



Acting Chief Robert D. MacLean presents Officer Craig Lane's wife Bridget and children Zachary, Riley and Sydney with an American flag following his memorial service on May 31, 2014



On May 31, 2014 United States Park Police paid their final respects to Master Patrol Officer (MPO) Craig Lane who passed away on Monday, May 5, 2014, after battling brain cancer. MPO Lane proudly served with the Marine Corps and worked diligently as a United States Park Police officer for 17 years. The memory and legacy he left behind will act as a great comfort to those touched by his dedication and kindness.

MPO Lane will be remembered for his acts of bravery, passion for his job, great cases he made during his law enforcement career, how much he loved the Marine Corps and his country, hunting with his brother, and spending quality time with his family.

Craig's honorable and faithful service to this country and to the Nation's Capital (as a member of the U.S. Park Police) is a proud legacy, for which he will be remembered.

U. S. Park Police Aviation Unit Assists in River Rescue



U.S. Park Police Officer Abate prepares the hoist basket for rescue



On May 25, 2014, shortly after 3:00 p.m., the United States Park Police Aviation Unit received a hoist rescue request from Montgomery County Fire for two persons stuck in the rapids near Little Falls dam. The first victim was a female who ended up on the rocks and got stuck; the second victim was a Good Samaritan who attempted to assist the distressed female and also got stuck on the rocks.

Attempts were made by the Fire Department boats; however, their efforts were hampered as they could not navigate the rocks due to unstable and dangerous conditions. The victims were getting exhausted, increasing the potential for them to be swept away. USPP Pilot Sergeant Chittick and Rescue Technician Officer Abate conducted a hoist rescue on the stranded individuals and safely dropped them off on land to an awaiting U.S. Park Police patrol unit, Officer Al-Saigh. No injuries were sustained by the victims during this incident.

Further investigation determined that the male Good Samaritan was identified as a White House intern who did not know the female swimmer, yet he risked his own life to attempt to rescue another. His chivalry did not end there, as once USPP Eagle One was overhead, he assisted the female victim in getting in the rescue basket, to let her get rescued first.



Good Samaritan assits female into hoist basket and watches as she's lifted to safety



The Road to Hope



Captain D. Bosak, Major S. Fear, Deputy Chief P. Smith, Officer R. Pangretic, Acting Chief of Police R. MacLean and Major K. Horton

 United States Park Police Officer Ryan Pangretic is a proud member of LEU (Law Enforcement United), an organization founded upon and committed to honoring officers who have died in the line of duty.

Officer Pangretic was among hundreds of other riders who traveled on bicycle from Chesapeake, VA on May 10, 2014 arriving in Washington, DC on May 12, 2014, totaling over 250 miles to honor "Fallen Officers" killed in the line of duty. The ride is called "The Road to Hope" and LEU supports C.O.P.S. (Concerns of Police Survivors) and ODMP (Officer Down Memorial Page) through the generous donations collected by each rider/member.

Officer Pangretic rode in honor of Fallen FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) operator Christopher Lorek, who was killed in the line of duty along with his partner FBI HRT operator Steve Shaw. Both Special Agents were tragically killed during a training accident on May 17, 2013.

The U.S Park Police gave a warm welcome to LEU and supported the mission by hosting the memorial service along with the National Park Service on May 12, 2014.

Kids to Parks Day

Left to right: Patrol Officer Gonzales on 'Guinness' and Officer Sabate with 'Spirit'

The National Park Trust launched Kids to Parks Day to encourage families to engage and celebrate parks across the United States. To commemorate Kids to Parks Day various school groups visited national parks to engage and celebrate parks, learning, playing and enjoying the outdoors.

Designated as a national day of outdoor play Kids to Parks Day additionally supports First lady Michelle Obama’s ‘Let’s Move’ initiative, encouraging kids to become more physically active. On May 19, 2014 various school groups visiting Constitution Gardens in Washington, D.C. met with United States Park Police Horse Mounted Patrol Officer Gonzales on “Guinness” and Officer Sabate on “Spirit” and learned about horses and being police officers.



 

San Francisco Field Office Hosts National Fingerprint Your Child Event




USPP San Francisco Fild Office Participants Photo: ID Tech Ken Rawles

  On 05/17/2014 the United States Park Police (USPP) San Francisco Field Office with the assistance of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), and Life Touch hosted a National Fingerprint your Child Event (associated with the National Center Missing and Exploited Children) at the Sports Basement in the Presidio.

USPP officers were on hand to fingerprint children alongside representatives from surrounding federal law enforcement agencies to include the FBI, Homeland Security, Secret Service, Federal Protective Services, Treasury, and Veterans Affairs Police.

There were a total of 275 fingerprint kits created at the event for the participating children. This event was coordinated by USPP Detective Raquel Lopez-Milano. In addition, USPP HMP and K9 officers were available for public education.

Weekend Flood Closures for D.C. Area National Parks

National Park Service News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 16, 2014

Contact: Jenny Anzelmo-Sarles jenny_anzelmo-sarles@nps.gov

The National Park Service (NPS) is advising the public to be prepared for high water closures in parks throughout the Washington, D.C., area. National Weather Service (NWS) models are predicting water levels to rise and peak late Saturday or early Sunday. Road, facility and trail closures should be expected throughout the weekend.

Visitors should check park websites for the most current information, but are cautioned that these situations can evolve rapidly and information on specific closures may be delayed. Park visitors who venture out onto trails should expect muddy conditions and puddles.

Park Specific Closures and Contact Information

National Mall & Memorial Parks: Hains Point remains closed. Ohio Drive (along the Potomac River and next to the recreational fields is currently open) but may close if water levels rise as predicted. Ohio Drive (along the Washington Channel, near the East Potomac Park Tennis Center) remains closed. East Potomac Park Golf Course and Tennis Center will likely be closed until water levels recede. Some other low-lying areas of the National Mall, including a portion of Independence Avenue, may be closed if water levels rise as predicted. In anticipation, some permitted events including the BKB Foundation and Children’s Fund foot-races are canceled. www.nps.gov/nama

Rock Creek Park: Park visitors should expect downed trees and various debris along trails and roads. Rock Creek Parkway and Beach Drive may experience closures this weekend during periods of high water. www.nps.gov/rocr

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Several closures are in place and low-lying areas of the canal towpath may close if water levels rise as predicted. Current closures are: Capital Crescent Trail between Fletcher’s Boathouse and Water Street including the Foundry Branch Tunnel (due to sewage overflow), entrance road to Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, Olmsted Overlook, Billy Goat Trail, 15 Mile Creek Campground, and the Appalachian Trail Bridge over the Potomac River. The following boat ramps are closed: Big Slackwater, Taylors Landing, Snyder Landing, Nolands Ferry, Monocacy, Edwards Ferry, Lander, Brunswick and Point of Rocks. www.nps.gov/choh

George Washington Memorial Parkway: Drivers may experience lane closures during periods of high water especially around Memorial Bridge. www.nps.gov/gwmp

Great Falls Park: In Maryland- the park is closed to vehicle access. In Virginia- visitors may experience some trail closures during periods of high water. If water levels rise more than predicted the park will close.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: The park has evacuated several offices and historic buildings along Shenandoah Street. Hikers should be prepared for the Appalachian Trail to be closed near Harpers Ferry and Lock 33 of the C&O Canal. www.nps.gov/hafe

Monocacy National Battlefield: The following are closed: Worthington Ford Trail, Middle Ford Ferry Trail and Gambrill Mill Trail and boardwalk. Visitors should also expect a closure of the Brook Hill trail. Other park trails are muddy. www.nps.gov/mono