LA AIRPORT POLICE PRAISED BY US DEPARTMENT OF STATE

August 1, 2011

Los Angeles, CA –Los Angeles Airport Police officers are being lauded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security for their work in ensuring the safety and protection of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during their visit to the Los Angeles area.

In a letter sent to LA Airport Police, Special Agent-in-Charge, Wesley Weller, thanked the LA Airport Police force and specifically recognized the Dignitary Protection Unit as being instrumental in the overall safety and security of the Royal visit.

“These exceptional officers have become a reliable fixture with our critical airport security operations and they did not disappoint on what was one of the largest and most complex protective security missions we have conducted in the greater Los Angeles area in some time,” stated Special Agent Weller in the letter.  “The efforts of [the LA Airport Police] department in assisting with security preparations for the Duke and Duchess and their protective detail are greatly appreciated.”

“As LA Airport Police officers, we’re extremely proud of the work we do and the fact that we’ve been able to make LAX one of the most secure airports in the country and one of the safest places in Los Angeles,” said Marshall McClain, president of the Los Angeles Airport Peace Officers’ Association (LAAPOA).  “It’s always great to have the hard work of our officers, that often goes unseen by the general public, recognized by federal agencies and departments such as the US Department of State.”

The Los Angeles Airport Peace Officers’ Association (LAAPOA) represents the more
than 425 sworn police officers and firefighters of the Los Angeles Airport Police
Department assigned to protect and serve Los Angeles International Airport (LAX),
LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT) and Van Nuys Airport (VNY).