Theodore Roosevelt: Action, Accountability, and Leadership Lessons for 21st-Century Policing

Character in action, institutional integrity, and the enduring responsibility of leadership

Leadership is not defined by words alone—it is proven through action, enforced through accountability, and sustained by character, as demonstrated by Theodore Roosevelt.

“To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.” — Theodore Roosevelt

Understanding the Man and His Moment

Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919) stands as one of the most dynamic and consequential leaders in American history—an individual whose life was defined by action, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to reform.

Born into privilege yet burdened by fragile health, Roosevelt forged himself through discipline, intellectual rigor, and relentless determination. He transformed weakness into strength, building not only physical resilience but moral clarity—traits that would define his leadership.

Before the presidency, Roosevelt served as President of the New York City Board of Police Commissioners during one of the most corrupt and challenging periods in the department’s history.

The NYPD of the 1890s was plagued by political patronage, inconsistent discipline, widespread corruption, and eroding public trust. Officers were often influenced by political forces, standards were unevenly enforced, and credibility with the public was diminished.

Roosevelt did not inherit a functioning institution—he inherited a system in need of reform.

He did not manage it.

He confronted it.

He enforced the law equally—regardless of rank or influence. He removed officers who failed to meet standards, challenged entrenched corruption, and restored discipline.

Most importantly, he led through presence.

Roosevelt walked the streets at night, unannounced. He inspected officers personally. He ensured that standards were not theoretical—but real, visible, and enforced.

Institutions do not reform themselves—leaders reform them.

Why This Reflection

Throughout this leadership series, I have reflected on figures including Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Thomas Jefferson, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Each represents principle, sacrifice, and vision.

Theodore Roosevelt represents something equally essential:

Leadership in action.

At a time when modern policing faces scrutiny—questions of integrity, accountability, morale, and public trust—his example is not historical.

It is urgent.

A Continuum of Encounter, Memory, and Responsibility

My connection to Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy has not been confined to study alone—it has unfolded across places, experiences, and moments throughout my life.

At the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, I have stood in the great entrance hall
where Roosevelt’s presence is unmistakable—expressed through his words, imagery, and the scale of his legacy.

For years, I sat with family members on the steps beneath the statue that once stood at its entrance—a powerful bronze image of Roosevelt on horseback. Though that statue has since been removed, the reflection it inspired remains.

Leadership, like history, may be revisited—but its core lessons endure.

At the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace in Manhattan, I walked through the rooms that reflect the foundation of his character—discipline, responsibility, and purpose.

That connection extends further through his family legacy, as I have visited the home of his cousin, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, in Hyde Park, New York—reflecting on the continuity of leadership, service, and responsibility across generations.

Within the Police Commissioner’s office at One Police Plaza—where I was formally appointed the NYPD Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker—the connection becomes even more direct.

My parents both graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School on Fordham Road in the Bronx. Recently, after speaking with officers of the 46th Precinct, I walked along Fordham Road and entered the nearby subway station—reflecting on the paths they once walked.

In that moment, the connection to Roosevelt was not only historical—it was familial.

In Union City, New Jersey, I worked alongside parents, crossing guards, security officers, educators, and community leaders to help build a school system recognized as a national model—reinforcing the same principles of character, responsibility, and purpose.

These are not isolated moments.

They form a continuum.

Today, that connection continues in the most personal way. My grandson bears the name Theodore—a name that, in our family, is not just remembered, but lived. It reflects a legacy of character, responsibility, and the enduring standard that leadership demands.

Leadership is not simply studied—it is encountered, lived, and carried forward.

Leadership in Action: Reform and Accountability

Roosevelt did not accept the culture he inherited—he disrupted it.

He understood that:

·        Ethics must be enforced—not assumed

·        Authority without accountability breeds corruption

·        Leadership requires the courage to confront internal failure

These are not historical lessons.

They are present-day realities.

Then and Now: The Enduring Challenge

Modern policing continues to face scrutiny—issues of discipline, morale, accountability, and public confidence.

The response must be the same as Roosevelt’s:

Clarity. Responsibility. Decisive action.

The Wounded Protector

Leadership, morale, and resilience are interdependent.

Officers carry unseen burdens—the cumulative weight of trauma, responsibility, and repeated exposure to human suffering—what I have described as the “Wounded Protector™.”

Ethical leadership is essential to sustaining those who serve.

Presence and Leadership

Roosevelt did not lead from behind a desk.

He led from the streets.

Leadership must be visible.

It must be engaged.

It must be present where decisions meet reality.

Presence is not symbolic—it is operational.

It is through direct engagement, not distance, that leaders remain informed, build trust, and understand the realities faced by those they lead.

Leadership cannot exist from isolation or behind institutional walls. It must be exercised where people work, where challenges unfold, and where decisions carry consequence.

This presence must be grounded in respect—not authority alone.

Not to dominate—but to listen, guide, and affirm.

In that environment, leadership is not enforced through volume or position, but through credibility, consistency, and example.

A Principle of Leadership

Your badge is your authority—but the soul and heart of who you are is your character.

Authority gives responsibility.

Character gives credibility.

Integrity builds trust.

When a leader’s presence reflects respect, character, and integrity, it becomes a force that strengthens both the department and the community.

Chronology and Continuing Work

For more than two decades, I have addressed these same issues across this country through writing, teaching, and speaking.

The principles of ethical leadership, accountability, morale, and resilience are not theoretical—they are lived, they are taught, and they are necessary.

Closing Reflection

Leadership requires action, accountability, and character.

Theodore Roosevelt lived it. The responsibility now belongs to us.

We must enforce the standard, lead with integrity, and serve with honor.

Leadership is not defined by proximity to history—but by what we choose to build, uphold, and pass forward because of it.

As originally posted in Law Officer, March 24, 2026. 

About the Author

Vincent J. Bove is a nationally recognized authority on ethical leadership, violence prevention, and law enforcement resiliency. A sought-after speaker and prolific author, his work has influenced agencies and institutions across the United States for over 25 years.

Bove has authored more than 350 published articles and four books addressing critical issues in public safety, leadership, and moral courage. His book Reawakening America© was named a finalist for ASIS International’s Book of the Year, while Listen to Their Cries© was sponsored for all attendees at the National Conference on Ethics in America at West Point.

He was appointed the first-ever Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD, conducting initiatives in all boroughs of New York City for the department. He is also a trusted voice at FBI venues, West Point, and numerous U.S. military facilities. A longtime contributor to the National Association of Chiefs of Police, he has authored 18 cover stories and helped shape national law enforcement dialogue through feature articles and reports.

“Vincent J. Bove is considered one of the foremost national experts on school and workplace violence prevention, specializing in facility protection, evacuations, terrorism prevention and leadership training.” – U.S. Senate

Photo: NYPD officer speaking to Vincent J. Bove, NYPD TD4, May 7, 2025. (RALLC)

Selected Resources — Ethical Leadership and 21st-Century Policing

Law Officer Contributions — Vincent J. Bove

The principles outlined here in Law Officer are part of a broader body of work developed through decades of writing, teaching, and national engagement in ethical leadership and modern policing, with additional writings available through public record search.

The Vigilant Protector™: Ethical Leadership for 21st Century Policing

The Ethical Leadership Doctrine™ in Policing

Sustaining Ethical Leadership in Policing

Complete Law Officer Chronology — Vincent J. Bove

Photos:

Image 1 (Header Image)
Original illustration of Theodore Roosevelt as NYPD Police Commissioner engaging officers in 19th-century New York—depicting leadership through presence, accountability, and reform. (Vincent J. Bove for Reawakening America LLC)

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Image 2
Vincent J. Bove signing the logbook inside the NYPD Police Commissioner’s office at One Police Plaza on November 22, 2024, upon appointment as NYPD Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker. (Reawakening America LLC Archives)

Lou Gehrig: Leadership Principles for 21st Century Policing

 The Iron Horse, American Character, and the Enduring Call to Serve

As a new baseball season begins and the nation turns once more to its timeless pastime, the story of Lou Gehrig reminds us that true greatness is not measured in statistics alone—but in character, humility, and quiet strength. For those who serve in law enforcement today, his life offers an enduring model of leadership rooted in dignity and duty.

Opening Day — A Nation, A Memory, A Standard

There is something unmistakable about Opening Day. Across America, from April through October, people gather in stadiums for what has long been called the national pastime. It carries a sense of renewal, tradition, and connection across generations.

For many of us, that excitement began in childhood—and never left. For me, it was box scores, newspapers, and baseball cards—the quiet ritual of studying the game, memorizing players, and holding in your hands something that felt larger than life.

Who Was Lou Gehrig? — Greatness Defined by Character

Lou Gehrig played his entire career with the New York Yankees from 1923 to 1939, establishing himself as one of the greatest players in baseball history.

His record of 2,130 consecutive games—played through injury, fatigue, relentless travel, and the daily demands of Major League Baseball—earned him the nickname “the Iron Horse.”

It was not simply a measure of strength. It reflected something deeper: durability, dependability, and unwavering dedication to the game.

For years, he never missed a game—something almost unthinkable.

As Jonathan Eig writes in Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig, while the nation struggled through the Great Depression, Gehrig’s consistency offered something steady and reliable when it was needed most:

“While everything else seemed to fall apart during the Depression, baseball carried on… and no one would play better baseball in the 30s than Lou Gehrig… Gehrig—durable, dependable, and dignified—was the man for hard times.”

Character Beyond the Field — A Standard for All

Another dimension of Gehrig’s life speaks just as powerfully today.

As Jonathan Eig notes, Gehrig was one of the few players of his era to publicly support integration.

He said, “There’s no room in baseball for discrimination. It is our national pastime and a game for all.”

A principle that extends far beyond baseball—and speaks directly to those entrusted with public service today.

At a time when the country—and the game—remained divided, Gehrig stood for something higher: fairness, inclusion, and dignity.

The Moment That Defined a Nation

On July 4, 1939, at Yankee Stadium, before a capacity crowd of more than 60,000, Lou Gehrig stood as his body was failing from ALS.

And yet, he said, “Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.”

A quiet voice. A powerful truth. A moment that still thunders with character.

From My Bronx Home to the Yankee Dugout — A Journey of Purpose

Growing up in the Bronx, I often think back to being a 12-year-old kid riding my bicycle from 207th Street all the way down through the borough along Jerome Avenue—carefully weaving in and out along the pillars beneath the elevated train above me, making my way toward Yankee Stadium.

It was a few miles each way—no small trip for a 12-year-old—but one that never felt long when the destination was Yankee Stadium.

I passed precincts along that route without a second thought—places I would one day return to more than a half century later, not as a kid chasing autographs, but as an NYPD law enforcement motivational speaker addressing the men and women who serve there.

At the time, all I wanted was a glimpse of the players… maybe an autograph before the game.

Never could I have imagined that one day I would return—not to the stands—but to the clubhouse, and even the dugout, speaking with those very players, encouraging them, listening to them, and supporting them through the challenges of life both on and off the field.

Life has a way of unfolding that we cannot predict.

From a long bicycle ride as a young boy chasing a dream…

to standing in those same spaces decades later, entrusted with the opportunity to serve others.

From trying to get autographs…

to being present as a confidant.

It is a reminder that purpose often reveals itself not all at once—but over time, through faith, experience, and the friendships we are blessed to build along the way.

Brotherhood, Leadership, and Legacy — The Enduring Character of Bucky Dent

Among those friendships, one stands apart.

I have been blessed to know Bucky Dent since our first encounter in 1980—now more than four decades ago.

Dent, a World Series champion and MVP, is forever connected to one of the most iconic moments in
baseball history with his dramatic 1978 home run. He was also my favorite player of that era—something that has only deepened with time, not because of what he accomplished on the field, but because of who he is as a man.

For years, we have remained in constant contact—often on a daily basis—as brothers, sharing our faith, navigating life’s trials, and encouraging one another through family and professional experiences. Ours is a bond strengthened over time through trust, shared values, and a commitment to uplifting one another.

His leadership was instrumental in opening a door in my life that I could never have anticipated. Through him, I came to know members of the New York Yankees team, including opportunities to be present among former players on Old-Timers’ Day—men I had once admired from afar as a young boy.

What mattered most, however, was not proximity to greatness—it was the responsibility that followed.

That connection led to one of the most meaningful endeavors of my early work—bringing together letters of encouragement and inspiration to young fans from 28 former Yankees players for my first book. These were not simply names, but players willing to support my work for youth, sharing their voices with the next generation.

In the years following the tragic death of Yankees captain Thurman Munson—lost in a plane crash—those relationships deepened even further. It was a time of profound loss for the team, and I was privileged to serve in a role that called for something more than words.

I stood among them as both a confidant and a spiritual guide—offering encouragement, presence, and affirmation during a time when even the strongest among them carried the weight of grief. It was, for me, a moment to support those who were themselves protectors—men accustomed to strength—now navigating loss.

Just days ago, after reading one of my recent Law Officer articles—which he described as “awesome”—Bucky sent a message of encouragement along with a blessing for my work with the NYPD:

“Life doesn't always come easy, but every trial is a teacher that shapes our heart and soul to grow stronger.

Sometimes, the most rugged path leads us to the most beautiful place we could never imagine.

Trials come not to break, but to fortify and teach the meaning of perseverance.

In a life full of testing, don't seek a road without obstacles—seek a heart that won't give up.”

His words echo the very spirit of Lou Gehrig—a reminder that true leadership is not confined to a moment in history, but lives on through relationships, faith, and the way we choose to endure.

The Bronx — Where Character Endures

During visits to the NYPD 44th Precinct, the NYPD 46th Precinct in the Bronx, and the 32nd Precinct in Harlem, the connection became clear in a powerful way.

Standing among officers, with walls behind them adorned with images of the Yankees, there was a shared appreciation for the national pastime and the values it represents.

As much as the game is enjoyed, it is character that holds a deeper place—reflected in these commands and throughout the law enforcement profession, where men and women serve others at risk to their own personal safety.

In that moment, it was clear: this was not just about history—it was something still being lived.

The same values seen in the game were present in these officers—carried forward in how they serve, lead, and protect others.

These are not abstract ideas—they are lived every day by those entrusted to serve.

Leadership Principles for 21st Century Policing

• Show up every day. Reliability builds trust.

• Lead with humility. Let your work speak.

• Stand strong in adversity. Character is revealed in hardship.

• Put the team above self. Invest in and protect your people.

• Build your legacy through daily conduct. Leadership is lived—not declared.

Final Reflection — The Standard Still Stands

As a new baseball season begins, the excitement of Opening Day reminds us of something deeper.

The game returns. The crowds gather. The traditions endure.

But above all—character remains the standard.

From the Bronx to Yankee Stadium, from the clubhouse to the precinct, the lesson has never changed: character endures—and so must we.

As originally published by Law Officer, March 20, 2026. 

About the Author

Vincent J. Bove is a nationally recognized authority on ethical leadership, violence prevention, and law enforcement resiliency. A sought-after speaker and prolific author, his work has influenced agencies and institutions across the United States for over 25 years.

Bove has authored more than 350 published articles and four books addressing critical issues in public safety, leadership, and moral courage. His book Reawakening America© was named a finalist for ASIS International’s Book of the Year, while Listen to Their Cries© was sponsored for all attendees at the National Conference on Ethics in America at West Point.

He was appointed the first-ever Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD, conducting initiatives in all boroughs of New York City for the department. He is also a trusted voice at FBI venues, West Point, and numerous U.S. military facilities. A longtime contributor to the National Association of Chiefs of Police, he has authored 18 cover stories and helped shape national law enforcement dialogue through feature articles and reports.

“Vincent J. Bove is considered one of the foremost national experts on school and workplace violence prevention, specializing in facility protection, evacuations, terrorism prevention and leadership training.” – U.S. Senate

Photo: NYPD officer speaking to Vincent J. Bove, NYPD TD4, May 7, 2025. (RALLC)

Endnotes

1. Jonathan Eig, Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig, p.109.

2. Jonathan Eig, Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig, p.140.

Recommended Reading

Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig by Jonathan Eig — a valued volume in my personal collection and an outstanding work of American history.

Additional Articles by Vincent J. Bove

PHOTOS:

1. Lou Gehrig addresses a packed Yankee Stadium on July 4, 1939, delivering his farewell speech with dignity and grace in the face of terminal illness. (Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

2. Vincent J. Bove with New York Yankees World Series MVP Bucky Dent during an exhibition game in Columbus, Ohio, April 19, 1982. Their friendship, spanning more than four decades, reflects the enduring role of faith, character, and mentorship both on and off the field.
   
   

3. Vincent J. Bove addressing members of the NYPD 44th Precinct in the Bronx, which includes Yankee Stadium within its command—connecting leadership, service, and the enduring values reflected in the national pastime.

Frederick Douglass: Voice, Truth, and Leadership Lessons for 21st-Century Policing

Moral Courage, Human Dignity, and the Power of Truth in Leadership

Before leaders can unite communities, they must first have the courage to speak truth—and few figures in American history embodied that courage more powerfully than Frederick Douglass.

“If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” — Frederick Douglass

Understanding the Man and His Moment

Frederick Douglass (c. 1818–1895) stands as one of the most consequential figures in American history—born into slavery, yet rising to become one of the nation’s greatest writers, orators, and voices of moral conscience.

Denied the basic rights of education and freedom, Douglass nevertheless learned to read as a boy—an act forbidden to those enslaved, yet one that would shape the course of his life. After escaping slavery at the age of twenty, he transformed his personal struggle into a national mission.

He first gained prominence as one of the most celebrated orators of the abolitionist movement, captivating audiences with a rare combination of lived experience, intellectual force, and moral clarity. Drawing from his own journey, Douglass spoke with an authority that could not be dismissed—holding listeners spellbound and calling a divided nation to confront the injustice of slavery.

Like the prophets he often invoked, Douglass warned America of the moral consequences of its actions. Deeply grounded in Scripture, he spoke not only as an advocate for freedom, but as a voice of conscience—challenging the nation to live up to its founding ideals.

His written works further cemented his legacy. Douglass authored three autobiographies—each a landmark in American literature—chronicling not only the brutality of slavery, but the enduring strength of the human spirit. As a newspaper editor and political thinker, he mastered the power of the written word, shaping public discourse through essays, speeches, and advocacy.

During the Civil War, Douglass’s influence extended to the highest levels of leadership. His meetings with Abraham Lincoln reflected a relationship grounded in candor, respect, and shared moral purpose. A man once denied his own freedom stood before the President of the United States and urged him to do more—and was heard.

Douglass lived to see the end of slavery and remained steadfast in his commitment to equality and citizenship during Reconstruction, even amid disagreement and challenge. His life was marked not only by achievement, but by perseverance, responsibility, and an unwavering dedication to justice.

He has rightly been described as the most important African American of the nineteenth century—and one of the most significant voices in the history of the United States.

Why This Reflection

Following recent reflections on leadership—including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Franklin D. Roosevelt—and the enduring responsibility of leadership to preserve truth—I was drawn to a leader whose strength came not from command, but from conviction.

To understand the strength of Douglass’s voice, we must first understand what shaped it—and why it still matters today.

A Personal Encounter with Enduring Truth

Some books are read once. Others are returned to—studied, reflected upon, and lived.

Among the most meaningful in my collection is Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, first encountered in my youth and revisited over time. Equally powerful is Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom by David W. Blight, a Pulitzer Prize–winning work that brings depth and humanity to Douglass’s life.

In The Soul of America by Jon Meacham, Douglass’s influence is woven into the broader American story—particularly through his relationship with Abraham Lincoln.

These works are not simply read—they are studied, reflected upon, and applied.

The Power of Voice and Truth

Frederick Douglass did not command armies—he commanded attention through truth.

His words carried moral clarity grounded in lived experience. He exposed injustice not to divide, but to awaken.

For modern policing, this lesson is essential: trust is not built on perfection—it is built on truth.

Formed Through Suffering, Refined Through Purpose

In the New York City Police Department, particularly through the Police Self Support Group, I have witnessed something profoundly different—something essential.

It is the understanding that trials, suffering, and adversity do not weaken those who serve—they have the capacity to strengthen them instead.

These are men and women who have endured catastrophic injury, serious illness, emotional strain, and the cumulative weight of a profession that often demands everything. Yet they rise—not in isolation, but together.

In prior reflections, I have described this as the “wounded protector”—those who carry unseen burdens while continuing to serve others with strength and purpose. Within the Police Self Support Group, that concept is not theoretical—it is lived.

Officers support one another through recovery, stand beside each other in moments of hardship, and ensure that no one carries their struggle alone. What emerges is not weakness, but resilience—tempered, tested, and strengthened through experience.

In this, they reflect a truth that Frederick Douglass lived with extraordinary clarity. He endured the brutality of slavery, faced unimaginable hardship, and yet rose—transforming suffering into strength, and adversity into purpose.

This is the lesson.

That suffering, when met with character, does not diminish a person—it refines them.

That those who have been tested are often those best prepared to lead.

And that within the profession of policing, as in the life of Frederick Douglass, strength is often forged in the very trials that seek to break it.

Leadership in a Time of National Trial

As Frederick Douglass’s influence grew, the nation descended into Civil War. Violence on an unprecedented scale became the daily reality of Americans—reshaping not only the battlefield, but the very conscience of the country.

Hundreds of thousands were killed or wounded in battles that would define the nation’s future. Leadership, in such a moment, required clarity, courage, and conviction—qualities tested under the weight of extraordinary loss.

For those entrusted with leadership today, including in law enforcement, moments of crisis carry a similar demand: to stand firm, to lead with purpose, and to act with moral clarity when the stakes are highest.

It is within this environment that the leadership of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln must be understood.

Speaking Truth in a Divided Nation

In 1852, Frederick Douglass delivered one of the most powerful speeches in American history.

“This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.”

He spoke not to divide—but to awaken. Truth, when spoken with courage and moral clarity, has the power to transform a nation.

Leadership, Conscience, and a Nation: Douglass and Lincoln

Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln did not always agree—but they moved in the same moral direction.

Douglass challenged Lincoln—urging him to act more decisively against slavery and injustice. Lincoln listened, reflected, and ultimately acted with greater moral clarity.

A man once denied his own freedom stood before the President of the United States and called him to do more—and was heard.

That is leadership.

Their relationship reminds us that leadership is not defined by agreement, but by shared purpose, honest dialogue, and the courage to grow.

The Bonds That Shape Leadership

In Baltimore, Frederick Douglass formed deep friendships with free Black sailors and laborers. These relationships provided support, dignity, and hope.

He wrote that leaving them behind was his “tender point.” The greatest weight was not fear—it was love.

Leadership is not formed in isolation. It is built through trust, connection, and shared experience—and sustained by the bonds we are willing to carry with us.

For 21st-century policing, the lesson is clear: what we have described as police-community partnerships begins with relationships—within the department and within the communities served. Rapport, trust, and resilience are not developed in moments of crisis, but strengthened over time through connection, consistency, and the enduring support of family, colleagues, and community.

Human Dignity as the Foundation of Leadership

At the core of Frederick Douglass’s life was a belief in the dignity of every person.

For policing, this is foundational. Authority must always be guided by respect, fairness, and humanity—and exercised in a way that affirms, rather than diminishes, the dignity of those we serve.

What Modern Policing Can Learn from Douglass

Frederick Douglass’s life is a blueprint for leadership under pressure.

He teaches that truth must be spoken—even when it is difficult.

That leadership must welcome challenge—not silence it.

That dignity must guide every interaction.

In addressing new officers at the NYPD’s 46th Precinct, I shared a principle that reflects his life:

“Your badge is your authority—but the soul and heart of who you are is your character.”

Authority gives responsibility.

Character gives credibility.

Truth builds trust.

This reflection also speaks to a deeper reality. Prejudice, bias, and division still exist, and they challenge the very principles upon which our nation stands.

It is precisely for this reason that leaders like Frederick Douglass must be elevated and studied—not only for what they endured, but for what they became. His life stands as a model of moral courage, dignity, and character—reminding us that leadership calls each of us to rise to the highest standards of integrity and respect for others.

Closing Reflection

Leadership requires truth.

It requires courage.

It requires dignity.

Frederick Douglass spoke it. Abraham Lincoln acted on it.

The responsibility now belongs to us.

Preserve the truth.

Speak the truth.

Live the truth.

As originally published in Law Officer, March 19, 2026.

About the Author

Vincent J. Bove is a nationally recognized authority on ethical leadership, violence prevention, and law enforcement resiliency. A sought-after speaker and prolific author, his work has influenced agencies and institutions across the United States for over 25 years.

Bove has authored more than 350 published articles and four books addressing critical issues in public safety, leadership, and moral courage. His book Reawakening America© was named a finalist for ASIS International’s Book of the Year, while Listen to Their Cries© was sponsored for all attendees at the National Conference on Ethics in America at West Point.

He was appointed the first-ever Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD, conducting initiatives in all boroughs of New York City for the department. He is also a trusted voice at FBI venues, West Point, and numerous U.S. military facilities. A longtime contributor to the National Association of Chiefs of Police, he has authored 18 cover stories and helped shape national law enforcement dialogue through feature articles and reports.

“Vincent J. Bove is considered one of the foremost national experts on school and workplace violence prevention, specializing in facility protection, evacuations, terrorism prevention and leadership training.” – U.S. Senate

Photo: NYPD officer speaking to Vincent J. Bove, NYPD TD4, May 7, 2025. (RALLC)

Selected Resources

The following works, drawn from the personal collection of Vincent J. Bove, have been studied, reflected upon, and applied in the development of this article:

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave — Frederick Douglass → A firsthand account that brings the reality of slavery into clear moral focus, offering timeless insight into courage, resilience, and the human spirit.

Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom — David W. Blight → A Pulitzer Prize–winning biography that provides depth, historical context, and a powerful portrayal of Douglass’s evolution as a leader and voice of conscience.

The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels — Jon Meacham → A compelling examination of America’s moral struggles, highlighting the enduring influence of leaders like Douglass and his relationship with Abraham Lincoln.

Law Officer Leadership Series & Related Articles

This article is part of an ongoing leadership series published in Law Officer, exploring the principles of leadership, vigilance, and collaboration through the lives of those who have shaped our nation.

Readers are encouraged to explore the full series and related works:

Complete Leadership Series — Vincent J. Bove (Law Officer Author Page):

https://www.lawofficer.com/author/vbove/ → A comprehensive collection of leadership articles on ethical policing, character, and public trust.

Selected Bove Law Officer Articles

Lincoln’s Ethical Leadership Lessons for 21st-CenturyPolicing: → Examines the moral leadership of Abraham Lincoln and its direct application to modern law enforcement.

The Ethical Leadership Doctrine™ in Policing: From Silent Wounds to Enduring Moral Authority:  → A practical framework for embedding character, resilience, and ethical leadership into daily policing.

The Vigilant Protector™: The Fire of Character in the Hearts of NYPD’s Newest Bronx Officers (46th Precinct):→ Referenced in this article, highlighting character, calling, and the responsibility of new officers.

Illustration:
Frederick Douglass depicted at the center, symbolizing truth, moral courage, and leadership while connecting his journey to modern policing through themes of resilience, dignity, and service. Subtle elements—including the Underground Railroad, Abraham Lincoln, and a contemporary police-community interaction—highlight the enduring relevance of his life and lessons. (Vincent J. Bove / Reawakening America LLC)

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Photo:

Frederick Douglass, circa 1852–1855, in one of his earliest known portraits, capturing his strength, dignity, and resolve as a rising voice in the abolitionist movement. He would go on to become one of the most influential writers, orators, and moral leaders in American history.
(Frederick Douglass, circa 1852–1855. Public domain / Library of Congress)

Eisenhower’s Coalition of Generals: Leadership Lessons for 21st‑Century Policing

Unity of effort, Moral Courage, and the Responsibility of Leadership

From the battlefields of World War II to the streets of modern America, the enduring lesson of leadership is clear: unity of effort, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity remain the foundation of both victory and public trust.

“The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity.”
— Dwight D. Eisenhower

Why This Reflection

Following my recent article, “Ethical Leadership Lessons from Dwight D. Eisenhower for 21st-Century Policing,” examining the leadership of Dwight D. Eisenhower during World War II—published just two articles ago, before subsequent reflections inspired by events in New York, including “The Vigilant Protector” and my article on the NYPD’s newest Bronx officers—I was deeply encouraged by the thoughtful feedback it received.

Several readers expressed appreciation for highlighting Eisenhower, noting that he does not always receive the attention he deserves as a pivotal figure in modern American history.

One response, in particular, stood out. A reader asked whether I might consider a follow-up article focusing on Eisenhower’s involvement with the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps and the moral leadership he demonstrated in that moment.

Given my longstanding study of the Holocaust—including my graduate thesis, Reflections on the Holocaust, and subsequent published works on remembrance and ethical leadership—as well as the enduring symbolism of the Liberation Monument in my presentations, I welcomed that request.

This article is offered in response.

The Coalition Commander

When Dwight D. Eisenhower assumed command of Allied forces in Europe, victory would depend not only on military strength but on his ability to unite powerful leaders and nations into a functioning coalition.

Among those commanders were formidable figures such as George S. Patton, Bernard Montgomery, and Omar Bradley.

Eisenhower’s genius was not domination.
It was integration.

He understood that success required what today might best be described as unity of effort—the ability to bring strong individuals together under a common mission.

A Childhood Surrounded by American History

American history was never distant from my life growing up in the Norwood section of the Bronx.

My childhood home stood at 3200 Rochambeau Avenue, named for the French general Jean-Baptiste Rochambeau, whose alliance with George Washington helped secure American independence during the American Revolutionary War.

Nearby streets—Bainbridge, Decatur, Hull, Webster, and Gun Hill Road—quietly echoed the story of our nation’s past.

Inside my room, portraits of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln fascinated me as a child. Looking back now, it seems providential that both the streets outside my home and the figures on my wall pointed toward the same enduring lesson: America’s greatest achievements have always depended on leaders capable of uniting diverse people around a common purpose.

Coalition Leadership in American History

The tradition of coalition leadership runs deeply through American history.

George Washington’s alliance with Jean-Baptiste Rochambeau culminated in the decisive Siege of Yorktown.

A century later, Abraham Lincoln demonstrated similar wisdom by assembling a cabinet of rivals—an approach memorably described in Doris Kearns Goodwin’s book Team of Rivals.

Dwight D. Eisenhower would later lead the most complex coalition in modern warfare, culminating in the Allied invasion of Normandy during Operation Overlord.

Confronting Evil at the Camps: A Moment of Moral Reckoning

There are moments in history when leadership is tested not only in strategy, but in moral clarity.

When Dwight D. Eisenhower walked through the liberated concentration camps in 1945, the war was no longer only about defeating an enemy—it became a solemn duty to bear witness to evil itself and ensure that the truth would be recorded so humanity could never deny what had been done.

Eisenhower immediately ordered journalists, photographers, and members of Congress to visit the camps so that the evidence would be preserved for history. In many areas, German civilians were also brought to the camps and required to witness the atrocities firsthand, ensuring that the truth could not be dismissed, denied, or buried.

In the aftermath of the war, the pursuit of justice confronted not only the crimes themselves, but the troubling reality of denial, deflection, and the defense of “just following orders.” The world was forced to reckon with the moral responsibility of individuals within systems of power.

In the years that followed, particularly during the Nuremberg Trials, the world would witness attempts to deny or diminish these crimes—confirming the necessity of Eisenhower’s insistence that the evidence be seen, recorded, and preserved.

His concern proved tragically prophetic.

The Responsibility of Remembrance

The Holocaust stands as one of history’s most devastating examples of what happens when human life is treated with contempt and human dignity is denied. Its lesson, however, extends beyond that singular tragedy. Across the centuries, whenever hatred, cruelty, or indifference have taken root, human beings have suffered the consequences.

For me, this awareness began at an early age. Growing up in the Bronx in the 1960s, I vividly remember seeing, for the first time, the tattooed numbers on the arm of a neighbor in my apartment building at 3200 Rochambeau Avenue—Mrs. Lerner. As a young boy, I asked what it meant. It was my first encounter with the reality of the Holocaust, and it left a lasting impression that has remained with me throughout my life.

That early experience would later deepen through study. In 1985, my graduate work included a master’s thesis titled Reflections on the Holocaust, examining the enduring lessons of that tragedy.

In the years since, my writings and professional efforts have continued to address issues of hatred, violence, and the protection of human dignity, including the safeguarding of houses of worship and vulnerable communities.

As Elie Wiesel wrote in Night:

“To forget the dead would be akin to killing them a second time.”

Ethical leadership requires that we confront such realities honestly, with transparency, accountability, and humility.

To say never again is not merely to remember the past—it is a solemn commitment to vigilance in the present.

A Living Reminder of Liberation

For more than two decades, one monument has remained a powerful symbol in my leadership presentations. Overlooking the Statue of Liberty at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, the Liberation Monument depicts an American soldier carrying a survivor from a Nazi concentration camp.

I have shared this image thousands of times—often with law enforcement professionals—as a reminder of the moral courage required to confront evil and the enduring responsibility to protect human dignity.

The message is simple, timeless, and enduring: history calls every generation not only to remember, but to ensure that such darkness is never allowed to return.

Lessons for 21st‑Century Policing

Modern policing increasingly requires leaders capable of coalition command.

Public safety today depends upon collaboration among law enforcement agencies, schools and community institutions, civic organizations and workplaces, and federal, state, and local partners.

Just as Eisenhower united diverse commanders and nations in a common mission, today’s police leaders must unite institutions and communities in a shared commitment to safety, trust, and ethical service.

This is the essence of unity of effort.

In this sense, modern policing is not only a profession—it is a daily exercise in ethical leadership and the protection of human dignity.

The Enduring Lesson

From Washington to Lincoln to Eisenhower, the lesson of American leadership remains remarkably consistent.

Great leaders succeed not by standing alone, but by bringing others together in a common cause.

In every generation, that responsibility belongs to those willing to lead with integrity, vigilance, and collaboration in service to others.

Selected Historical Reflections and Resources

Night — Elie Wiesel
The Diary of Anne Frank — Anne Frank
When Courage Was Stronger Than Fear — Peter Hellman

Reflections on the Holocaust — Vincent J. Bove (Master’s Thesis, 1985), available through public academic and online records.

Additional writings and reflections on Holocaust remembrance by Vincent J. Bove are available through public records online.

Also in the author’s personal historical collection is a full set of works by historian Stephen E. Ambrose on World War II and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Together, these works reinforce a timeless truth: the preservation of freedom and human dignity ultimately depends upon leaders—and citizens—who remain committed to leadership, vigilance, and collaboration in every generation.

As originally published in Law Officer, March 18, 2026.

About the Author

Vincent J. Bove is a nationally recognized authority on ethical leadership, violence prevention, and law enforcement resiliency. A sought-after speaker and prolific author, his work has influenced agencies and institutions across the United States for over 25 years.

Bove has authored more than 350 published articles and four books addressing critical issues in public safety, leadership, and moral courage. His book Reawakening America© was named a finalist for ASIS International’s Book of the Year, while Listen to Their Cries© was sponsored for all attendees at the National Conference on Ethics in America at West Point.

He was appointed the first-ever Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD, conducting initiatives in all boroughs of New York City for the department. He is also a trusted voice at FBI venues, West Point, and numerous U.S. military facilities. A longtime contributor to the National Association of Chiefs of Police, he has authored 18 cover stories and helped shape national law enforcement dialogue through feature articles and reports.

“Vincent J. Bove is considered one of the foremost national experts on school and workplace violence prevention, specializing in facility protection, evacuations, terrorism prevention and leadership training.” – U.S. Senate

Photo: NYPD officer speaking to Vincent J. Bove, NYPD TD4, May 7, 2025. (RALLC)

Related Leadership Articles by Vincent J. Bove – Law Officer

The following articles further explore the themes of ethical leadership, military service, and the lessons of history for modern policing.

Ethical Leadership: Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Power of Character 

World War II Leadership Lessons for Modern Policing

Forged to Protect: America’s Armed Forces and the Spirit of Service

Complete Collection of Law Officer Articles by Vincent J. Bove

Readers may explore the full collection of Vincent J. Bove’s leadership articles published in Law Officer.

These articles are part of an ongoing leadership series examining ethical leadership, vigilance, and collaboration in American public service.

Photo 1: General Dwight D. Eisenhower with Generals George S. Patton and Omar Bradley at the liberated Ohrdruf concentration camp in April 1945. After witnessing the atrocities, Eisenhower ordered that journalists, members of Congress, and military photographers document the evidence so the truth of the Holocaust could never be denied. (U.S. National Archives – Public Domain)

Photo 2: Vincent J. Bove addressing officers during roll call at the NYPD 121st Precinct on Staten Island, April 29, 2025. Holding a card depicting the Liberation Monument overlooking the Statue of Liberty, Bove shared reflections on the moral courage of America’s armed forces and the enduring responsibility of ethical leadership in public service. (RALC)

The Vigilant Protector™: The Fire of Character in the Hearts of NYPD’s Newest Bronx Officers

Encouraging NYPD’s newest officers at the 46th Precinct in the Bronx

Only days after nearly one thousand new officers graduated from the New York City Police Department Academy at Madison Square Garden, many began reporting to precincts across the city to begin the next phase of their profession. At the NYPD’s 46th Precinct in the Bronx, nearly fifty of these young officers gathered for their first days on the job, their uniforms still in mint condition and their sense of purpose unmistakable. Standing before them offered a powerful reminder that the future of policing rests not only in training and authority, but in character. In the spirit of The Vigilant Protector™, the enduring fire within an officer—the fire of character—must guide every action throughout a lifetime of service.

A Mosaic of Diversity

According to NYPD sources, the graduating class sworn in at Madison Square Garden on March 9, 2026, reflects the remarkable diversity and universality of the department. Among the nearly one thousand new officers are 46 veterans of the United States Armed Forces, and members of the class represent more than forty countries around the world. Together they bring a remarkable richness of education, life experience, language, and culture to the profession. These men and women—coming from neighborhoods across New York City and nations across the globe—now stand together as the newest Vigilant Protectors of the people of New York City.

A Storied Command in the Bronx

The 46th Precinct holds a significant place in the history of policing in the Bronx. Serving the neighborhoods of Fordham, University Heights, Morris Heights, and Mount Hope, the command protects a vibrant and diverse community of families, students, small business owners, and longtime residents.

Over the years, the precinct earned a powerful nickname—“The Alamo.” The name reflects the determination and resilience of the officers who served there during some of the most challenging years in the Bronx, when they stood firm in protecting their community despite tremendous adversity.

Inside the roll-call room, reminders of that history are visible. Among them is a mural honoring Detective Miosotis Familia, who was tragically killed in 2017 while serving the community she loved. The street outside the precinct now bears her name—Detective Miosotis Familia Way—ensuring that her sacrifice will always be remembered.

For the newest officers standing in that room, those memorials serve as a solemn reminder that they are now part of a long tradition of service and responsibility.

Inspiring the Next Generation of NYPD Officers

As the invited speaker for roll call that day, I began by expressing my appreciation to Sergeant Warren Golden for his leadership and for coordinating the opportunity to address the officers.

As the Field Training Unit sergeant at the precinct, Sergeant Golden plays a vital role in mentoring the department’s newest officers as they begin their careers. Before I spoke, he addressed the officers during roll call with authority, dignity, and clarity—one of the most effective roll-call briefings I have witnessed.

Leadership in policing is often shaped in moments like these, when experienced officers and qualified professionals collaborating alongside them help prepare and inspire the next generation for the responsibilities ahead.

A Journey Back to the Bronx

Traveling from New Jersey that morning, I took New Jersey Transit into Penn Station, walked a few blocks to Herald Square, and boarded the D train heading north to the Bronx. As the train moved uptown through the city, the journey felt less like an ordinary commute and more like a pilgrimage back to the neighborhoods that shaped my youth.

Emerging once again onto the Grand Concourse—par excellence of the Bronx—I felt the powerful familiarity of a place that has long stood as one of the borough’s great avenues of life, history, and community.

Growing up in the Bronx, I walked countless times along the Grand Concourse and Fordham Road, the gathering place during my high school years. As a twelve-year-old living on 207th Street, I once rode my bicycle down Jerome Avenue all the way to Yankee Stadium—a ride that felt like a great adventure at the time and remains vivid in my memory even today.

Inside the roll-call room of the 46th Precinct, I noticed posters of the New York Yankees on the wall. Seeing them immediately brought that childhood ride back to mind. Years later, life would come full circle in an unexpected way as I had the privilege of serving as a confidant to players on two World Championship teams and later authoring my first book reflecting on that remarkable experience.

Passing along the Grand Concourse that morning, I also noticed the old Loew’s Paradise Theatre, where I had gone to the movies many times as a teenager. Its once majestic lobby now stands closed and boarded, a quiet reminder of how neighborhoods change over time.

Yet the treasured memories remain strong—reminders that the Bronx, like policing itself, has always been a place where resilience, character, and loyalty are forged through experience and carried forward from one generation to the next.

The Goodness Within the Community

As soon as I stepped out of the subway exit, I asked a man for directions to the precinct. Instead of simply pointing the way, he walked two blocks with me.

During that brief walk he shared something remarkable: he had left a beautiful home in New Rochelle, New York—about an hour’s drive from the 46th Precinct and known for its suburban affluence—to move into an apartment in the Bronx so he could care for his brother, who had lost his sight to glaucoma.

Profoundly impressed by his fraternal devotion, I shared his story with the officers during roll call.

“These are the kinds of people who live in the communities you protect,” I told them. “People of sacrifice, compassion, and dignity.”

Officers do not merely patrol streets—they protect communities filled with people whose lives are shaped by loyalty, love, and quiet acts of devotion to others.

And in that short walk to the precinct, the deeper meaning of policing revealed itself: The Vigilant Protector stands watch not only over streets and buildings, but over the quiet goodness that exists within the lives of ordinary people.

The Vigilant Protector™

Standing before nearly fifty officers whose uniforms and equipment were still new and whose careers were just beginning, I felt a solemn responsibility to encourage them.

“The badge represents your authority,” I told them.

“But the true heart, soul, and fire of who you are as an officer is your character.

Never let that fire of character be quenched. Keep it alive throughout your entire career.”

As I spoke, I paced slowly across the room. I could see the officers’ attention and focus. Several held steady eye contact, and as I moved, I noticed heads turning with me in quiet agreement. It was a profound moment of recognition and solidarity—a shared understanding of how essential character is to the profession.

Afterward, many of the officers approached me personally to shake my hand and thank me. Even as I remained inside the precinct speaking with others, more officers continued to come forward. When I finally prepared to leave, several stood near the entranceway and again reached out to shake my hand.

A number of them even addressed me warmly as “brother.”

Those simple gestures revealed something profound: character in action.

Standing Between Light and Darkness

I reminded the officers that while the communities they have sworn to protect face crime that must be confronted, the overwhelming majority of people living in those neighborhoods are good people.

“You stand between the light and the darkness and are the protectors of human dignity,” I told them.

That responsibility is lived out each day in the protection of the good people of the community—the seniors in their homes, the children walking to school, the workers striving to make an honest living, and the families working every day to build better lives.

After the presentation, NYPD Officer Theodore Cecchini, who had taken the roll-call photograph accompanying this article, shared a reflection that captured this truth perfectly.

“When someone calls 911,” he said, “it may be the most serious day of their life. Police officers must never forget that and must always remember the importance of respect and empathy.”

Those words reflect a profound truth of policing: what may appear to officers as one call among many may represent the most frightening or uncertain moment a citizen has ever faced. Compassion must always guide the response.

Morale and the Spirit of the Profession

Four principles guide much of my work with police officers: ethical leadership, emotional resiliency, suicide prevention, and morale.

These principles are not only inseparable but interdependent, each strengthening the others in sustaining officers throughout their careers.

Morale, in particular, is essential. Officers must remain proud of their profession and refuse to allow negativity to diminish the value of their calling.

“Remain positive and grateful for your profession,” I told them. “Leave the negativity and chaos outside yourselves and stand firmly for the principles of justice, goodness, and service to others.”

In a world often marked by cynicism, the character of The Vigilant Protector™ must stand as a contradiction to that negativity.

Walking the Bronx Once More

As I prepared to leave the precinct, I was touched by the continued kindness of Sergeant Warren Golden and Sergeant Richie Baez.

Earlier that day, Sergeant Baez had graciously invited me to share a few words with the more seasoned officers of the 46th Precinct during their prior roll call.

Ever thoughtful, they offered to ensure I would be accompanied to my next stop. Grateful for their hospitality and the warm welcome I had received throughout the precinct, I thanked them sincerely and chose instead to walk through the neighborhood—reflecting on the day and offering a quiet prayer for all those I had met.

After leaving the precinct, I chose not to take the closest subway entrance. Instead, I walked down to the Grand Concourse and continued toward the Fordham Road station, breathing in the memories of the Bronx that had shaped my youth.

Along the way, I encountered two NYPD officers from the precinct walking their patrol. They recognized me from the gathering earlier and stopped briefly to thank me for my remarks.

Both spoke about how much they loved being police officers because they believed it was a privilege to protect the people of the community.

After we parted, I continued my walk toward Fordham Road. During that walk I offered a prayer for the officers I had just met—asking for their safety, strength, and wisdom throughout their careers.

Looking into the eyes of those young officers earlier that day, it was clear that their journey had only just begun.

As I walked, I reflected on the heart of the message I had shared earlier that day.

The badge represents authority.

But it is the enduring fire of character within the heart of the officer that ultimately defines the protector—and sustains the spirit of The Vigilant Protector™.

And if that fire remains strong within them, the people of the Bronx—and the people of New York City—will always be well protected.

As originally published in Law Officer, March 17, 2026.

About the Author

Vincent J. Bove is a nationally recognized authority on ethical leadership, violence prevention, and law enforcement resiliency. A sought-after speaker and prolific author, his work has influenced agencies and institutions across the United States for over 25 years.

Bove has authored more than 350 published articles and four books addressing critical issues in public safety, leadership, and moral courage. His book Reawakening America© was named a finalist for ASIS International’s Book of the Year, while Listen to Their Cries© was sponsored for all attendees at the National Conference on Ethics in America at West Point.

He was appointed the first-ever Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD, conducting initiatives in all boroughs of New York City for the department. He is also a trusted voice at FBI venues, West Point, and numerous U.S. military facilities. A longtime contributor to the National Association of Chiefs of Police, he has authored 18 cover stories and helped shape national law enforcement dialogue through feature articles and reports.

“Vincent J. Bove is considered one of the foremost national experts on school and workplace violence prevention, specializing in facility protection, evacuations, terrorism prevention and leadership training.” – U.S. Senate

The Vincent J. Bove Collection in Law Officer

This article is part of Vincent J. Bove’s continuing series in Law Officer exploring ethical leadership, character, and the philosophy of The Vigilant Protector™ in modern policing.

Readers may explore the complete Vincent J. Bove collection of articles in Law Officer here:

The Vincent J. Bove Collection — Law Officer

Law Officer Related Articles

The Vigilant Protector™: Ethical Leadership for 21stCentury Policing

The Ethical Protector™: Moral Courage and Leadership in Modern Policing

Principles of American Policing™ for 21st Century Law Enforcement

PHOTOS:

1: Nearly one thousand recruits graduate from the New York City Police Department Academy during ceremonies at Madison Square Garden on March 9, 2026. These new officers now begin their careers across the five boroughs as the next generation of vigilant protectors serving the people of New York City. (Photo credit: NYPD)

2: Vincent J. Bove shares thoughts on ethical leadership and the philosophy of the Vigilant Protector™ with nearly fifty newly assigned NYPD officers at the 46th Precinct in the Bronx during March 15, 2026 roll call, just days after their graduation from the New York City Police Academy. (NYPD Officer Theodore Cecchini for RALLC)

3: NYPD Madison Square Garden graduation, March 9, 2026. (NYPD)

4: NYPD 46th precinct roll call prior to remarks by Vincent J. Bove on ethical leadership, morale, and resiliency, March 15, 2026. (Vincent J. Bove for RALLC)

5. NYPD officer speaking to Vincent J. Bove, NYPD TD4, May 7, 2025. (RALLC)