A Close Friend Retires
One of my closest colleagues retired Friday. Ken Brown put in 28 years working everything including
undercover narcotics, patrol, detectives, traffic, and most recently Captain of
Detectives. Through his career he
investigated several high-profile, violent crimes in Idaho Falls.
Ken and I worked together in many areas over the years. He’s a natural athlete. When we were on SWAT together, part of the
annual qualification was a timed two-mile run.
I had to work out regularly to pass it.
Ken would just show up after a tennis game and lap me by the second mile. Did I mention he still has a full head of
hair? Nope, no jealously here.
Ken is a faithful father and husband. I recall a work trip to Vegas we made with some colleagues. You can guess at the after-hours events that
were available. Without any coaxing on my
part, Ken chose the higher path. I remember him commenting on wishing his wife was there. Cool, huh?
Ken is a graduate of the FBI Nation Academy and has earned
several commendations and recognitions for his actions, including “Supervisor
of the Year” in 2005. He moved up through the ranks being promoted
to sergeant in 1999, lieutenant in 2001 and captain in 2007.
I took him mountain climbing once, which is kind of funny when
you realize he’s afraid of heights. I
remember him clawing his way to a cliff’s edge determined to face his fears –
all the time screaming like a little girl.
I love that courage!
Ken is an incredible leader and knows how to make things
happen. He has an uncanny ability to
size up a problem and quickly find the solution. He is known for his compassion for
victims.
Ken and I have worked together, played together, and shed
tears together. I’m going to miss him.
