On November 4, the seaside city of Long Beach, California was teeming with over 200 personnel from diverse law enforcement agencies, their families, and Explorer Recruits from Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Explorer Academy Class #109, all taking part in the Colors Run 39. This event marked the recruits' progression while also serving as a poignant tribute to officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as posted on their Facebook page.
Open to individuals between 14 and 20 years old, the Explorer Academy focuses on leadership development and provides insight into law enforcement careers. The forthcoming academy is scheduled for early February 2024, while the existing Class #109 is slated to graduate on December 16.
The day's events kicked off with a 3-mile run along the Long Beach pathway, beginning and ending at Rosie's Dog Beach. The goal of the Colors Run is to acknowledge the recruits' achievements, familiarize them with new settings, and create a memorable learning moment. The gathering also honored former Custody Assistant Anthony Thompson and Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, who tragically lost their lives in service.
Notable participants included representatives from several Los Angeles County and surrounding area agencies such as Alhambra, Glendale, Burbank, Bell Gardens, La Habra, Montebello, Monterey Park, the Norwalk DPS, and Pomona PD. This demonstration of solidarity underlined the sense of community that is the foundation of the Explorer Academy program.
For those contemplating participation in the forthcoming Explorer Academy, detailed information is available at the STARS Explorer Academy website. Signup details for February 2024 cohort will be updated in a timely manner. As Explorer Academy continues to mold ambitious, community-oriented youths, events like Colors Run exemplify the transformative impact these individuals can potentially have within their communities and beyond.
