Let Me Introduce Myself
By Joe Valdez
First, I would like to thank Steve Landi, Larry Chan, Troy Carrasco and Dave Brandt. It was an honor to stand with you guys; you will always be friends of mine.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who voted in this past election. I have always felt that a large showing from our membership, regardless of whom you voted for, shows an involved group of officers. Involvement proves to City Hall officials, proves to the POA Board, and proves to our colleagues that we all care about the decisions being made about our future, and that we will get involved when decisions are made that affect each of us. We must continue to care about the issues that affect us, and we must learn and become educated about the ramifications of our votes. We must be willing to stand by one another and let everyone know that our voices will become one when push comes to shove.
“We must be willing to stand by one another and let everyone know that our voices will become one when push comes to shove.”
For those who may not know me, please let me introduce myself. My name is Joseph Valdez; I’m a 7-year veteran of the SFPD and part of the Specialist Team. I did my FTO at Southern, probation at Northern, was permanently assigned to Mission, then took a P1 assignment to Park before accepting my current assignment at the Legal Division.
I have the distinct honor of being voted in as your current Sergeant-at-Arms for your POA. I was officially sworn to my post this past Wednesday, February 16, 2011 and have attended my first POA meeting on that same day. I have not, nor do I ever intend to miss any board meetings and vow to represent each of your concerns and/or complaints at every meeting that I attend.
I would like to acknowledge that out-going Sergeant-at-Arms Chris Breen has extended his hand to me during this transitional period. He has graciously offered his assistance in creating a smooth transition for my implementation to this board and I know that he has done so for the betterment of our membership.
Again, to each and every member who voted, I want to say thank you and please stay involved and your voice will remain heard. As a member of your executive board, we need to stand as a united front, not only to show solidarity, but also to protect ourselves from outside political forces. We need everyone to know that the Police Officer’s Association is a united family of officers that stands side-by-side next to our brothers and sisters.
Again, I thank you for this opportunity to represent you. Please contact me with any concerns, comments, or suggestions.
