Still the Forgotten Soldiers
By Chris Hertig, member, IFPO Board of Directors
For years I said that there were more security officers killed in the line of duty than police. I had no data, just knew that there are 3-4 times as many security officers than police. Now there’s some data: roughly 50 police officers are murdered in the line of duty each year as are about 70 security officers.
This brings up security officers’ involvement use of deadly. A recent post by PrivateOfficer.com reveals that 2 days into 2019 US security officers were involved in 30 lethal force situations. Clearly we need more data on uses of force by security folks.
And we need to recognize and examine the security industry. In 1992 I wrote a piece in Security Management calling security officers the “Forgotten Soldiers of the Invisible Empire” within criminal justice. It seems not much has changed.
Security officers are on the front lines. They are a key part of Homeland Security. They prevent countless tragedies, yet they get ridicule rather than recognition. Let’s put our prejudice aside and see them for what they are. Learn about and respect these needed “soldiers."
Chris Hertig, Spring Garden
International Foundation for Protection Officers Mission Statement
Mission Statement Part I.
The International Foundation for Protection Officers provides professional learning opportunities for security practitioners, to impart the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to maximize job performance and enhance career potential.
Purpose: to make a positive difference in the quality of the participant’s job performance and elevate the professional status of students who partake of our learning opportunities.
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Business: to supply committed security practitioners with a quality education to help achieve their highest potential and provide recognized accreditation for successful completion of educational goals.
Values: commitment, integrity, responsibility, and standards of excellence, provide the platform that supports our journey as we pursue our mission.
Vision Statement
Commitment to Excellence: To be the recognized center of excellence and primary provider of education and training products and services to the security industry.
Mission Statement Part II.
“The International Foundation for Protection Officers is committed to the support and professional development of protection officers and supervisors. Through advocacy, promoting training standards, and providing accessible training, education and certification opportunities, we seek to enhance their professional standing as well as increase and diversify the value of the vital services they provide.”
