Enfield Police Explorers Celebrating 50th Anniversary

ENFIELD, CT — The golden anniversary of a pioneering Enfield-based youth organization will soon be commemorated, and event planners are seeking to reconnect with past members.

Enfield Police Explorers Post 820, the first of its kind in Connecticut, was formed in 1967 by longtime police chief Walter J. Skower, who originally intended the program to help troubled youths. Andrew "Papa" Raiche was the initial adviser and had a tremendous influence on the direction of the program.

For nearly 40 years, Bob Rookey served as an adviser to the group before passing away in 2005, according to Lt. Willie Pedemonti, who has been chief adviser for the past eight years.

The Explorer program, which currently has 31 active members from Enfield and surrounding towns, offers direct experience in community police work for teens aged 13 through 18 interested in law enforcement. Participants attend classes, ride along with police officers and assist with police duties during community events.

Aidan Stone, 17, who is entering his senior year at Enfield High School and aspires to become a police officer, said he has made "friends for life" in nearly four years with the program.

"The post has a lot of great advantages - it teaches you great work ethic and leadership," Stone said. "It's been a great experience so far. When I turn 21, I hope to join the Enfield Police Department."

Emily Fullerton, 18, a recent East Longmeadow High School graduate who will be attending Springfield Technical Community College in the fall, has been with the Explorers for about two years, and is also considering a career in criminal justice.

"The best part is being able to learn a lot of things other kids aren't able to learn: being knowledgeable about police work, respecting police officers even more, and working in the community," she said.

Several current and former Enfield police officers got their start with the Explorers. Retired deputy chief Anjo Timmerman was an original member in 1967, and longtime patrolman Tom Pyrcz began the following year. Pedemonti was an Explorer from 1982 to 1984, and was hired as a full-time police officer in 1988.

In commemoration of the half-century mark, the post is holding a celebration for current and past members, as well as the community at large, on Saturday, Sept. 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Sun Valley Beach Club in Stafford. Several state and local dignitaries have been invited to participate in the festivities, Pedemonti said.

Sun Valley, the Country Diner and Trantolo & Trantolo have generously donated use of the hall, food and entertainment for the evening, Pedemonti said.

There is no admission charge for the event, but donations will gladly be accepted. Pre-registration is required by contacting Pedemonti at 860-763-8930 or wpedemonti@enfield.org.

Organizers are hoping to reach as many past members as possible. Anyone who served with the post or has contact information for former Explorers is also asked to notify Pedemonti.

Photos courtesy of Enfield Police Explorers Post 820