7-17-2024 12:55am

Alamogordo’s Officer Anthony Ferguson Remembered via Ferguson Academy

Chris Edwards Editor

July 16th, 2024 marks a special day of remembrance for Alamogordo City Police Officer Anthony Ferguson. A year ago, he gave the ultimate sacrifice while on duty, and he is dearly missed every day. Officer Ferguson's dedication, bravery, and commitment to our community will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched. End of Watch: July 16, 2023.

In his memory a partnership arrangement with Alamogordo Public Schools, the City of Alamogordo Police and Fire Department launched the Ferguson Academy.

“Officer Ferguson had a deep affection and commitment to our community, particularly towards the youth. This is why the collaboration between the Alamogordo Public Schools and the City of Alamogordo holds such significance. It serves as a tribute to Officer Ferguson in a manner that authentically reflects his values, and I believe he would be proud of it,” shared Stephanie Hernandez, Assistant City Manager.

Week one of APD’s inaugural Ferguson Academy was completed on July 7th.

On the first day, students experienced what the application process would be to become a Police Officer. This meant participating in a physical assessment that included doing pushups, sit-ups, running a mile and a half, and sprinting 300 meters

As if that wasn’t challenging enough, they also participated in a physical assessment for fire fighting. Physical testing for fire begins with two minutes on a stair master and continues with dragging a fire hose, hauling two K12 chainsaws around obstacles, and ladder skills.

With the exception of the 4th of July holiday, the rest of the week was filled with learning about topics such as taking notes, gathering and processing evidence properly, interviewing witnesses, and interrogating suspects.

Several scenarios, including fire investigations, were set up for the students to apply their newly learned skills. APD officers and AFD firefighters were on hand to guide them in the process by assisting them to make sure they were asking the correct questions and looking in the right places.

Week two of the Ferguson Academy is officially completed. The participating students had a fantastic week diving deep into essential law-enforcement skills.

They learned defensive tactics, including techniques to protect themselves and others in various situations and understood how to stay safe and effective on duty. The use of force training helped students understand the importance of dealing with persons while under pressure.

Traffic stops were another key focus, with students practicing safe and efficient protocols for handling scenarios they might encounter. Additionally, our students participated in realistic scenarios involving building clearing, enhancing their teamwork, communication, and tactical skills.

Now, the students are into the final week ending July 19th, 2924 of the Ferguson Academy with more learning in store and remembering the hard work, dedication and commitment to community of Officer Anthony Ferguson.

Chief of Police David Kunihiro emphasized the significance of the program, "The Ferguson Academy stands as a testament to the remarkable legacy of Officer Anthony Ferguson, a man who served his community and ultimately lost his life serving and protecting the Alamogordo community. At its core, the Ferguson Academy symbolizes our commitment to fostering positive community relationships. Moreover, it provides students with invaluable firsthand exposure to police and fire operations, paving the way for potential careers right here in our local community."

The Ferguson Academy is not only a testament to Officer Ferguson's enduring legacy but also a reflection of the unwavering dedication of Alamogordo's educational and public safety institutions to the betterment of their community.

Through this partnership, Alamogordo Public Schools and the City of Alamogordo reaffirm their shared commitment to nurturing talent, promoting safety, and fostering a spirit of service among the youth of Alamogordo.