TWO OF LAX’S FINEST RETIRE AFTER 67 YEARS OF CITY SERVICE

(Los Angeles, California – February 2, 2007) Two of the most well-liked and respected security officers at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) recently said goodbye after completing a total of 67 years of City service.

The retiring officers, Lawrence Johnson and Willie Roy, celebrated the occasion at LAX’s Proud Bird Restaurant.

Johnson, also known as "L. J.," is one of the three original security officers at LAX. He is the proud holder of badge number 1, the first badge issued to an LAX security officer. When L. J. joined the security staff in 1975, he was one of 16 officers assigned to the three then-wooden posts at LAX.

"When I first arrived," L. J. recalled, "identification checks were confirmed by visual examination and verbal questioning. The post were without amenities so the officers took their personal breaks every four hours." Today, 200 officers are assigned to 18 concrete and bullet-proof posts now equipped with heating and air-conditioning units, refrigerators, microwave ovens and state-of-the-art identification systems.

"L. J. is the epitome of a first class professional security officer. He is always punctual, alert, vigilant, courteous and knowledgeable and never a complainer. He accepted all types of assignment and was always available to the department when he was needed," said Lieutenant Arthur Rosby, his supervisor.

His achievements include being recognized four times by Los Angeles World Airports for perfect attendance and the recipient of the City of Inglewood’s Model Citizen award. He is a veteran, serving in the United States Army for four years. L. J. has been married to his wife Cynthia for 22 years.

Security Officer Roy began his career as an Airport Security Officer in 1980 after entering City service in 1972. His supervisors and fellow officers consider him as one of the most dedicated security officers at LAX. Roy is known for his efficient handling of the Airport Police’s LAX Impound Lot, where he has been assigned for many years.

"A dedicated employee, supportive and loving family man, Roy cared for his first wife, who was terminally ill for many months," said Sergeant Alicestine Miller.

Roy has been married to his present wife, Verna, a senior clerk typist with the Los Angeles Fire Department, for two years.

Roy served in the United States Navy for six years, receiving the Loyalty Award.

Security Officer Willie Roy on the left and Security Officer Lawrence Johnson on the right holding Retirement Certificates.

Security Officers Lawrence Johnson and Willie Roy, are presented with certificates from James T. Butts, Jr., Los Angeles World Airports, Deputy Executive Director of Law Enforcement and Protection Services and Brian A. Walker, Chief of Los Angeles World Airports Police.

Lieutenant Arthur Rosby shakes hands with Security Officer Lawrence Johnson.