08/31/2026
It was 33 years ago today that I swore to protect. And now, I still swear to protect.
93-17, happy anniversary!
It was like yesterday, and I’d do it all over again.
I can’t find a police academy picture of me.
So this one from the 7th Precinct will have to do for now.
In those 33 years I...
- served as a police officer, undercover investigator in OCCB, patrol supervisor, Applicant processing division supervisor, Brooklyn South evidence collection team supervisor and second in command.
- became a homeowner
- raised a family
-Spent 13 years as a schools volunteer, PTA president, title 1 chair, SLT parent.
- had a retail business
- became a small property owner
- became a small investor
- provided notary services free of charge to our community
- all while living in Bensonhurst.
I was always busy. They called me “the ghost of the 7th” because I was never around lol.
My call sign on the police radio was “Stripper” (yes, there’s a story behind that , no I’m not sharing that with you. I’ve gotta have a secret or 2 😅)
(I can’t believe I did that, what a ride)
NYPD 7th Precinct
Herbie Schmere
Vincent Patti
