An American Legion emblem was dedicated at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police North District headquarters (3120 E. 30th Street) on July 2nd, 2018, to provide a physical symbol of the ongoing support and appreciation Broad Ripple Post 3 (64th and College Avenue), the American Legion, provides the North District officers. The dedication was during the 1:30 pm roll call with all of the "mid-shift" officers present.

Post 3 commander Roger Vandrey dedicated the emblem. North District Commander Joshua Barker accepted the emblem on behalf of the district officers, and Deputy Chief of Police Chad Knecht thanked Broad Ripple Post 3 for the excellent support of the officers.

Commander Vandrey used elements of the Legion emblem to highlight some of the principles Legion members and police officers share: (1) The rays of the sun form the background of the emblem and suggest the Legion's principles will dispel the darkness of violence and evil; (2) The wreath forms the center, in loving memory of those brave comrades who gave their lives in the service of the United States; (3) The star symbolizes honor, glory and constancy; (4) The smaller of two inner rings set upon the star represents service to our communities, states and nation; and (5) The smaller of two outer rings denotes the welfare of America's children.

Since January 2017, Post 3 has supported North District's Officer of the Month program by presenting a gift card to the chosen officer and by post members being present at roll call to thank all of the officers for their service to our community. The command staff has reported the officers most appreciate the presence of the Legion members, and the personal thank you.

IMPD's North District is one of 6 districts that make up IMPD's patrol area. North District is 80 square miles - for perspective, this is the same size as the city of Cincinnati, Ohio. While North District is not the largest patrol district in Indianapolis, it is by far the most densely and diversely populated with a population of approximately 220,000 residents. This district is home to Butler University, the Indiana State Fair Grounds, 2 major hospitals, over 30 miles of city trails and green space, and Indianapolis' premier commercial and retail corridor. There are 211 police officers assigned to North District, providing 24-hour patrol coverage, investigations, narcotics investigations, and community relations. North District has some of the most affluent areas in Indianapolis; home to a number of professional sports players from the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers and Indy Car Drivers. Like too many cities across the country, there are also neighborhoods touched by a disproportionate amount of violence and social disorder.

Broad Ripple Post 3 is proud to be part of this neighborhood, and will continue to support and recognize our police force for the magnificent job they do.