Police Week 2023: It Takes a Small Army of Volunteers
Episode #51 | 9 May 2023
A single memorial service hosted by the National Fraternal Order of Police 41 years ago has turned in to a extraordinary event, attended by thousands, in honor of our nation’s heroes. On May 15, families of fallen peace officers from around the country will head to our nation’s Capital to honor the life of America’s finest who gave their life in the service of others. The sacrifice of these fallen officers and their families will never be forgotten.
In part three of a four part series focused on Police Week, National FOP President Patrick Yoes sits down with Andy Maybo and Matt Hagen, Co-Chairs of the National FOP Memorial Committee, to discuss what it actually takes to put on this solemn event.
In their roles, Andy and Matt are responsible for the planning, setup and execution of the National Peace Officers Memorial Service in Washington D.C. Andy is a K-9 officer with the U.S. Capitol Police and the former President of FOP DC Lodge #1. Matt is a Deputy Sheriff with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and president of the Minnesota State FOP Lodge.
About Andy Maybo
Andy Maybo serves as the Co-Chair of the National FOP Memorial Committee. A K-9 officer with the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), he joined the USCP in 1999, and right out of the academy, he joined the Fraternal Order of Police. Andy quickly got involved in the USCP Labor Committee and worked his way up to serve as Chairman of the Labor Committee. He is the former President of FOP D.C. Lodge #1. In his role as a USCP Officer as well as his participation in the National FOP Memorial Committee, Andy has been part of the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service since 2008.
About Matt Hagen
Matt Hagen serves as the Co-Chair of the National FOP Memorial Committee. He has been an active member of the Fraternal Order of Police for 20 years. Since joining Lake Minnetonka Lodge 6 in 1999, Matt has held nearly every elected position on the board, including 3-terms as lodge president. In 2005, Matt was elected to the Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police State Board as the Sgt-At-Arms. He held that position until he was elected as the Vice President in April of 2013. Matt has been employed by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office since 1999 as a Deputy Sheriff. In his time with Hennepin County, he has worked in the Jail and Court Security Divisions. He is currently a K-9 Handler and is assigned to the Enforcement Services Division-Patrol Unit working overnights.
Law enforcement officers have one of the toughest and most dangerous jobs in the United States. The brave men and women of law enforcement are charged with the enormous responsibility of keeping our streets and neighborhoods safe.
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