PAX Centurion - Fall 2016

www.bppa.org PAX CENTURION • Fall 2016 • Page 13 Rising retirements, reduced recruits? Variety of factors converging as BPPAhonors retirees at annual banquet O n September 9 th at Venezia’s restaurant in Dorchester, the BPPA honored many of the past year’s retired members and their families. The annual event is held to honor all BPPA members who have succeeded in achieving the goal of a well-deserved retirement after many years of dedicated, often-times dangerous work as police officers and EMT’s. This year, there were 31 members who decided, for many varied and personal reasons, to make a choice to retire and pursue other plans. Some will continue to work for financial and personal reasons. Some have already packed their bags and moved along with plans to travel, fish, golf, or simply relax and enjoy the fruits of many years of labor. BPPA President Patrick Rose thanked all of those who attended, especially the families who are oftentimes overlooked and forgotten, for the important roles they play in every police officer’s and EMT’s life. Our work frequently entails long, mandatory hours spent away from “normal” family events such as birthday parties, barbeques and other social events. Holidays and weekends, an expected part of most people’s lives, are spent by BPPA members “serving and saving” others, answering calls for help and assistance while others enjoy their leisure activities. Finally, at retirement, police officers and EMT’s can enjoy and participate in activities that most others take for granted. Christmas and Thanksgiving will again become days to spend at home with the family, instead of rushing out the door to answer a medical emergency or a domestic disturbance. Once again, Venezia’s outdid itself with a delicious lobster-filet mignon dinner and outstanding service. Commissioner Evans spoke and thanked the attendees for their many years of service. Ironically, Sept. 9 th was the 97 th anniversary of the Boston Police Strike of 1919. It is anticipated that the number of retirees at BPPA- sponsored banquets in the next few years will be increasing, as a large number of BPD employees are reaching retirement eligibility. (See related stories elsewhere in this Pax Centurion.)