Behind the Wheel

Monday, April 1, 1963 9:00 AM - Oath of Office and Academy The place is the gymnasium above the parking garage of the Toledo Police Department. I, Daniel J. Palicki, do pledge to uphold the laws and constitution of the State of Ohio and the City of Toledo. Law enforcement officers are the only persons that can deprive a person of their liberty and freedom - the words "you are under arrest" can change a person's life totally and completely. "You are under arrest" places a responsibility on your shoulders, as an officer, and you must know the law, be honorable, diligent, and use your most important skill "common sense". This is not a game - it is reality and actuality. This life and career is a dedication to place your life in harm's way for the community you serve, to spend long and boring hours performing duties that do not make television and to be a part of a group of friends who fight the same battles and boredom. Dan Palicki retired from the Toledo Police Department (Ohio) with almost 31 years experience. He relates what it was like to wear the blue uniform from early 1960's to the 1990's. The career starts from the days in the academy, through walking a beat, filling in on various assignments getting a permanent riding crew to finishing the 31 years in the Traffic Section.