Burlington Officers Serve During Inauguration

Sergeant Tim McDonough recounts his experiences with fellow officers Rich Hanafin, Charles Ferguson and Joe Papsedero during the Presidential Inauguration:



Officers Charles Ferguson, Rich Hanafin, Joe Papsedero and myself, had an exciting and informative experience during the NEMLEC REGIONAL RESPONSE TEAM (RRT) trip to Washington, D.C. for the 2009 Presidential Inauguration, from January 18 through the 21st, 2009.

Approximately 80 RRT officers left Manchester, NH Airport on Sunday morning , January 18th, and flew to Baltimore/Washington International Airport. We were then transported to the Hyatt Regency Baltimore, a hotel located on the Baltimore harbor. We shared our accommodations with federal agents and officers from the Alabama State Police, the Arizona State Police, and the Louisville, Kentucky Police Department.

On Monday, January 19th, we were transported to American University in Washington, D.C., for an orientation and briefing for all participating law enforcement officers. We were advised of our assignments and responsibilities for the inauguration ceremony, the parade route, and the formal balls to be held that evening. Involved in the presentations were the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Marshal's Office, and the Office of Homeland Security. A highlight of the training was when all officers were sworn in as U.S. Federal Marshals by United States Marshal, George B. Walsh. This allowed all officers to perform law enforcement duties and have arrest powers while in the District of Columbia.

On Tuesday, January 20th, which was the actual Inauguration Day, RRT officers had to be prepared and fully dressed at 02:30 AM in the hotel lobby. We were transported to Washington, D.C. and arrived at approximately 04:00 AM, where lines were already forming to enter the parade route. After the parade route and surrounding areas was scanned for explosives, we were at our posts by 06:30 AM. Our primary assignment location was at the intersection at Constitution Ave and 12th St., adjacent to the parade route. This area was closed to civilian traffic, and was the primary emergency escape route for the president and other officials. We checked vehicle/occupant credentials, crossed pedestrians, and assisted emergency vehicles through the area. All participants marching in the parade were escorted by us into the parade route. It was a challenging day, with the RRT being relieved of our posts at approximately 07:30 PM for the trip back to Baltimore.

On Wednesday, January 21st, we checked out of the hotel in the morning and boarded our flight at 4 PM from Baltimore/Washington International to Manchester Airport.

Officers Ferguson, Hanafin, and Papsedero displayed the utmost in professionalism throughout this assignment, as you would expect. They were always on-time, in proper uniform, neat, and courteous during what was sometimes difficult and trying duty. They not only brought credit to NEMLEC, but to the Burlington Police Department as well. I know I can speak for them when I express thanks for allowing us to be a part of this historical event.