Chandler Explorers serve their community with honor & respect

Wanda Nichols Photos INTERSECTION HONOR GUARD -- Members of the Chandler Explorers assisted in traffic control for a funeral procession Thursday for former Chandler Reserve Officer Doug Tate, who had recently been serving in the capacity of police dispatch. Pictured top (L-R) stopping eastbound traffic on Hwy. 31 are CPD Officer and Explorer Advisor Tim Jones, Explorers Chief Megan Rogers, and Explorers recruit Steven “Bubba” Morgan. (left) (L-R) Ryan Wilson, Sgt. Heather Beall, Crystal Gonzales, and Jacob Lehman return from their posts at FM 315 south and Hwy. 31 west to allow traffic to resume.

Since forming in the spring of 2004 the Chandler Police Explorers have been working hard to make their organization one they can be proud of.

While training in every aspect of law enforcement patrol procedures members have gained first-hand knowledge and experience of the challenges and job skills that make up their community’s police service. +

Along with receiving valuable police training including gun safety, fire arms, and crime scene investigation, the Chandler Police Explorers devote much of their time to community service.

Most recently this group of dedicated young men and women assisted in traffic control last Thursday afternoon during a funeral held for former Chandler Police Reserve Officer Doug Tate, who had recently been serving in the capacity of volunteer police dispatch, as well as an adult volunteer leader for the Explorers. While the funeral procession proceeded from the Chandler 1st Assembly of God, south on FM 315, to east on Hwy. 31, the Explorers, under the direction of CPD Officer Tim Jones, served as intersection Honor Guard. Standing at attention, Explorers Chief Megan Rogers, Sergeant Heather Beall, and members Crystal Gonzales, Jacob Lehman, Ryan Wilson, and Steven “Bubba” Morgan saluted the passing motorcade.

“We wanted to surprise Chief (CPD Chief Ron Reeves) because Doug was his brother-in-law,” Rogers said.

“I was just totally blown away,” Reeves said. “The family was deeply touched by it.”

Other members of the Explorers include Lieutenant Matthew Reeves, nephew of Tate; Tate’s son Timothy; and Sean Sullivan and Michael Clancy. Adult leaders/sponsors are Chief Reeves, execu-

tive director; CPD Officer Tim Jones, advisor; CPD Assistant Chief James Lehman; Chandler Reserve Officer and Councilwoman Barbara Reeves; and Melissa Lehman.

Earlier Thursday morning, the Explorers delivered Christmas gifts to residents at the Chandler Nursing Center and South Timber Ridge.

The Explorers have been involved in many Chandler events including National Night Out held annually in August, traffic control for the Annual 5K Run fundraiser, the Pow Wow, assisting in the Keep Chandler Beautiful garage sale fundraiser, the Bull Tour, and Halloween Candy in the Park.

Young adults involved in the Explorer program not only gain practical experience in

law enforcement, but engage in program activities such as career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character education and leadership experience to encourage the development of the whole person. They will experience positive leadership from adult and youth leaders, have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, and have a chance to learn and grow in a supportive, caring and enjoyable environment.

The Chandler Police Explorers meet the first and fourth Thursday of the month at 7pm in the Chandler Police Department. Those interested can apply at the Chandler Police Department or contact any CPD officer at 903-849- 2181, or CPD Chief Reeves at 903-570-5272.