O’Hare “Airport Watch” Recognized by National Law Enforcement Group

CHICAGO, 2012-12-07 — /travelprnews.com/ — The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) Safety and Security Division, Chicago Police Department (CPD) and Bensenville, IL Police Department recently received the inaugural 9/11 Commendation Award from the InterPort Police organization.

The award was presented in New York City on November 28, 2012 for the “Airport Watch” Program at  O’Hare International Airport. The program, based on an international model, was developed by the Bensenville Police Department in April 2010 and is the first of its kind in Illinois. “Airport Watch” is comprised of individuals from communities surrounding O’Hare who are interested in various aspects of aviation, such as history and photography. Their tasks are to observe, record and report any and all suspicious activity around the perimeter and other outdoor locations surrounding the airport. Today, there are more than 75 members of the O’Hare “Airport Watch” Program.

“On behalf of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, we are very pleased to receive national recognition for this unique airport security initiative,” said CDA Commissioner Rosemarie S. Andolino. “Safety and security are among the highest priorities at Chicago’s airports. The “Airport Watch” Program is a great collaboration of local law enforcement agencies to provide more eyes and ears to help prevent criminal activity.”

In addition to the “Airport Watch” Program commendation, InterPort Police presented the inaugural International Police & Public Safety 9/11 Medals for Heroism; Aviation; Counter-terrorism and Border Management, among other categories.

Click here for a full list of the InterPort Police award winners.

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