Congrats Yonkers PD Capt. Frank J. Messar!

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Photos coming soon to www.onthejobny.com

Congrats Capt. Messar! Almost 40 years on the job in Yonkers! That's quite an accomplishment in itslef! Quite a career, and best of luck in your retirment, and have fun!

Yonkers police anti-terrorism expert retires

By WILL DAVID

THE JOURNAL NEWS

 

(Original publication: June 3, 2006)

YONKERS — The newly retired anti-terrorism expert on the city's police force says Yonkers is in a very "precarious position" because of its proximity to New York City.

Police Capt. Frank J. Messar, 58, who retired this week as coordinator and trainer in terrorism after 39 years in the department, said the country should be prepared for terrorism in the long run.

"I'm not so sure the American public is prepared for it," said Messar, who was the department's liaison with other local, state and federal agencies to coordinate efforts to combat terrorism. "I honestly think if we let our guard down, you will see another 9/11."

As he cleaned out his office on the top floor of the First Precinct on Thursday, Messar greeted well-wishers and took congratulatory telephone calls — but terrorism was very much on his mind as he said Yonkers needed more money for training in prevention and deterrence.

Ten Yonkers police officers whom he trained are now qualified to offer anti-terrorism training in the department. He said many of his officers worked at the World Trade Center site directly after the attacks.

"Frank has always been a consummate professional," Deputy Chief Thomas Sullivan said. "He has dedicated his life to the Yonkers Police Department. In the last several years, he has become an expert in homeland security issues, and he was our front man with state and federal agencies on the issue. He is a recognized expert in the field. He will be a very hard person to replace."

Messar led the elite Emergency Services Unit, which includes the department's tactical forces. The ESU would be among the first department units to respond in the event of terrorism.

He joined the department on Sept. 9, 1966, when officers earned $5,800 a year and did not have bulletproof vests or portable radios. He walked a beat on Riverdale Avenue.

"All you had back then was your handcuffs, a gun and a nightstick," Messar said.

He was promoted to sergeant in 1973, lieutenant eight years later and captain in 1993. During his career, Messar has served in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th precincts, the Anti-Crime Unit, and the Youth Services, Communications and Special Operations divisions.

He was the recipient of a Meritorious Service Award, two Commissioner's awards, five police commendations, seven certificates of excellent police work, nine unit citations, a lifesaving award and a commendation from the FBI Joint Terrorist Task Force.

Yonkers Police ESU Capt. Frank Messar talks with a colleague who wished him well on his retirement. Messar served 40 years on the force, and his last day of work was June 1, 2006. In the background is Lt. Joe Barca. ( Ricky Flores / The Journal News & LoHud.com )

Photos coming soon to www.onthejobny.com

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What? No party?

Congrats on 40 years of service and enjoy your retirment!