When my great uncle Julius Meier established the Oregon State
Police force during his term as governor (1931-1935), little did I know
then as a youngster that I would be chairing the Oregon State Police
Foundation decades later. I am extremely proud of Uncle Julius' vision
to lead Oregon to be among the first states to inaugurate a state police
agency, and proud as well to help continue the tradition. Seventy-five
years hence, it's unthinkable that any state would be without such a
lifeline.
Established in 2001, the Oregon State Police Foundation supports
the mission of the OSP to protect Oregonians and their property along
with Oregon's precious natural resources. The Foundation is fledgling in
its inception but, from modest beginnings we are working at developing
another legacy to enhance the work of those on the front. Particularly
because of budget constraints within the OSP organization itself, in
addition to supporting the basic mission of the Oregon State Police, the
Foundation strives to recognize all within the ranks and, principally,
troopers and staff who go above and beyond the call of duty; to
financially help families of state police officers killed or injured in
the line of duty; and for continuing education and other opportunities
as they may arise.
I am humbled to continue the work of my uncle and a former
Oregon governor, besides working with the fine people within the force
and the volunteer trustees who serve with me.
