Words of the Wise Podcast: Chief James O’Connor — Your Presence Gives Permission

Chief James O’Connor of the Stoneham Police Department reflects on 29 years in law enforcement and his experience as the Watertown midnight-shift commander during the shootout and capture operation following the Boston Marathon bombing. His career was inspired by his father, a police officer and early practitioner of community-oriented policing. Chief O’Connor encourages officers to remember how they felt when they first received the call or letter offering them the job. Revisiting that moment can restore perspective during difficult seasons, reconnect officers with their original purpose, and remind them that a career they may now take for granted was once a dream they worked hard to achieve. When he entered the profession, wellness was not discussed in academies, departments, or regular training. He noticed a significant change following the Boston Marathon bombing, when communities throughout the greater Boston area began developing critical-incident stress management teams and peer-support networks. Wellness gradually became part of the profession’s everyday conversation. Chief O’Connor explains that veteran officers have a special responsibility during debriefings. Even when they believe they personally do not need the session, their presence signals to younger officers that participation is acceptable. By simply sitting in the room, listening, and leading by example, experienced officers can give someone else permission to seek support. His closing advice is not to become lost in the profession. Policing may provide a front-row seat to extraordinary events, but the job will eventually end and another person will occupy the position. Officers should protect their family relationships, friendships, faith, and outside purpose because those connections will remain when the difficult days arrive and when the badge is finally removed. Views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not represent verified facts or the views of the host.