By Cary Shuman
Lou McKenzie holds the
awards that he received
upon the 40th anniversary
of his graduation from the
FBI National Academy in
Quantico, Virginia.
Retired Chelsea Police Lieutenant Lou McKenzie has been honored by the FBI Nation
al Academy on the 40th anniversary of his graduation from the world’s premier law enforcement learning and research center located in Quantico, Virginia.
McKenzie, 87, earned the awards in recognition of his distinguished 33-year career in law enforcement, his ongoing support of the FBI National Academy Associates, and for being a “true professional who is dedicated to service above self.”
McKenzie received a beautifully written personal letter from FBINAA President Timothy P. Braniff notifying him of the award. McKenzie has had the letter framed and it is prominently displayed with his numerous other awards and commendations at his residence in Middleton.
The other FBI National Academy “momentos of excellence” now on display at the McKenzie home gallery include a rich, 100-percent cotton fiber FBI National Academy cap and two plaques signifying his being awarded life membership in the FBINAA organization.
“I’m honored and proud of this recognition,” said McKenzie, adding humbly that “I’m not sure why they picked me.”
Memories of the FBI Academy
McKenzie attended the FBI National Academy’s 12-week course of study from April 1, 1984 to June 15, 1984.
“Charlie Wilson, who was chief at the time, recommended me for the Academy, and after an undergoing an extensive background check, I was accepted,” said McKenzie. “I certainly understood the prestige and stellar reputation of the Academy, and I was honored to represent the Chelsea Police Department and attend the Academy.”
McKenzie said he was one of 250 law enforcement officers who became part of the 137th Session of the Academy.
“I learned so many investigative skills and techniques that helped enhance my police work, especially in my role as the head of the detective bureau for 12 years,” said McKenzie. “Through my training and education at the Academy, I set up the first background investigation unit in the Chelsea Police Department. I created a 14-page application.”
The 12-week program at the FBI Academy was rigorous and physically challenging, according to McKenzie.
“The first day there were 250 officers in the program from many different countries – Japan, Italy, Israel, Germany,” said McKenzie. “In every class, you had to wear a shirt and tie. Everything you’re taught in class you had to type it up. There were no computers back then. All 250 officers had to do a two-mile run on the first day. It was a well-structured program that tested you mentally and physically.”
Always supportive of Chelsea Police
McKenzie, who retired from the Chelsea Police Department in 1996, said he stays in touch with his former colleagues in Chelsea. Interestingly, it was McKenzie who conducted the background check of current Police Chief Keith Houghton upon his candidacy for entrance into the Chelsea Police Department.
McKenzie served with Houghton in the department until his retirement in 1996. “Keith was an outstanding officer, and you could appreciate his knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to the force,” recalled McKenzie. “I am not surprised that Keith rose through the ranks with acclaim and is now serving as chief of the department. And I think he’s doing a great job.”