Police Officer Andreas Mellert, Jr.

Andy, uncle Andy. You have lived in my memory for more than 70 years. You were a very large friendly safe friend to a very small boy .I was made to understand your passing and who you really were. Your life and your death made a huge impression upon me. At 20 years of age I applied to the Detroit police department, I was too short and they probably didn't need cops that year. I worked part-time as a rent a cop as the birth of the son and daughter brought unexpected medical bills. I found I had a natural ability with people. In those days the only training that was available was to be learned from books and magazines.. Col. Jeff Cooper and his writing became my training manual and my father’s firearms and safety training ( a Military Policeman in the Air Force).
My wife and my son and daughter and I moved Arizona in 1970 and I became involved in a local posse system doing search and rescue and helped to develop the hasty search technique.. Because I was interested and motivated I attended more training and then became a trainer. I spent eight years as a certified reserve officer for the Sheriff's Department and then moved to my local city where I spent another 19 years. I again served as a certified commissioned police officer, instructor and trainer in police tactics and weapons. Over a career spanning almost 30 years it should be known that by your example I am now three for four on CPR and I have no idea how many people I have critically helped at accident scenes. Because of your example I have trained well, became tactically proficient and because of that I have never been forced to take a life. We share that accomplishment. I can also share that I never alowed a fellow Officer be harmed in my presence. I always tried to be the partner you could be proud of. I have saved for sure three and many others and assisted many in their most distressing times.. I have had the privilege of protecting my community and my family for almost 30 years. I know you already know that I have fulfilled my vow to you that I made at your gravesite. And I just thought I would let others know that you touched me and through me helped others. May God bless and keep you Sir.

John A Kennedy
MCSO and MPD Retired

November 26, 2019