Dear Fellow Sergeant,

This month we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, a nation that was founded on the enduring principles of liberty, justice, and self-governance.

Since 1776, America has stood as a testament to the resilience of a people committed to freedom and the rule of law. Through war, hardship, division, and triumph, our nation has endured because of the courage and sacrifice of ordinary men and women who answered the call to serve something greater than themselves.

Law enforcement officers have always stood among those guardians by protecting communities, upholding the Constitution, and maintaining the fragile but essential order that allows liberty to flourish.

Our profession is rooted in the founding promise that all people deserve safety, dignity, and justice. Every tour of duty, every call answered, and every act of service by police personnel contributes to that legacy. Our work is often unseen and misunderstood, but always essential.

This is why the mayor’s decision to exclude additional funding for the NYPD in its latest budget is inexplicable. The NYPD is already understaffed, and officers of all ranks are burning the candle at both ends with extended tours and mandatory overtime.

Thirty-five Police Officers and Detectives were promoted to Sergeant last month. Twenty Sergeants were promoted to Lieutenant, and 81 Sergeants filed for retirement.

No matter how you juggle the numbers, that equates to a net loss of 66 frontline NYPD supervisors, which is untenable given the additional demands that are already being placed upon us.

The NYPD is used to doing more with less, which is a testament to our dedication and commitment to our profession and the people of our great city. However, we can function in that manner for only so long before there are dire circumstances.

As law enforcement personnel we are the barrier between chaos and calm, the symbol of social order that allows democracy, as well as peace and prosperity, to endure.

We took a solemn oath to protect and serve, regardless of the social and political climate. While our dedication is not contingent upon public approval or recognition, the mayor’s glaring indifference to the needs of the Department is as insulting to us as it is dangerous to the public.

We will never lose sight of why we chose our noble profession. We will continue to serve with pride, commitment, and determination. We will continue to protect the public without fear or favor. This responsibility has never been easy, and during these particularly challenging times it is not always popular.

We serve because we believe in the ideals upon which our nation was founded 250 years ago. We serve because we are part of a long line of men and women who chose duty over self. We serve because, even in the darkest moments, there is light in the courage of those who stand up to protect others.

As the finest frontline supervisors in the world, it is our privilege and pleasure to carry forward the legacy of service, sacrifice, and resilience that defines the SBA, the NYPD, and the United States of America, which is the greatest nation in the world.

Happy birthday, America!

Fraternally,

Vincent J. Vallelong
President
Sergeants Benevolent Association