The Bakersfield Police Officers Association (BPOA) announced today that two of its officers are being deployed to serve their country in Iraq as members of the California Army National Guard. This marks the first time Bakersfield Police Officers have been deployed to a conflict in recent history.

Jim Ramos, is a Range Master with 16 years of service and Matt Peery, is a Senior Police Officer with 10 years of service with the Bakersfield Police Department. Both men will leave to Fort Hood, Texas on September 17, for 30 days where they will go through preparations before heading off to Iraq. Their tour of duty is expected to last twelve months.

The officers will serve as Special Agents within the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command. They will be responsible for investigating military personnel and civilian contractors hired by the Department of Defense suspected of committing felony crimes. Additional responsibilities include dignitary protection.

"Their deployment is indicative of their commitment to the protection of life, property and freedom both here and abroad," says Bill Ware, President of the Bakersfield Police Officers Association. "We wish them and their families the very best," says Ware "and we are asking for the community's help in keeping them and all of our military in their thoughts and prayers."

This dedication is apparent when talking to the officers about their time away from their family, friends and coworkers. For Ramos, perhaps it will be more difficult. He and his bride were recently married on August 3, 2007. The newlyweds are currently spending their honeymoon in Hawaii. Nonetheless, he is focused on the tasks that lie ahead of him. "We have been called to support our country," says Ramos, "we have a responsibility to do what has to be done" For Peery, the feeling is mutual. "My entire family is very patriotic," says Peery. "My brother is going back for his third tour of duty at the same time I will be there." Peery expressed a certain amount of honor knowing that he was among the first two from the Bakersfield Police Department to serve in recent history. "We are fulfilling our responsibilities to do our duty. If you have the ability to serve, you should serve."

Coincidentally, Peery and Ramos are good friends. "We both grew up serving our country, then our community," Peery said, "and now we will be serving our country once again."