Cops on Top has a strong commitment to provide tangible aid for the grieving and healing process of those who have lost a beloved officer, to support organizations dedicated to this cause, and to project a positive image of law enforcement officers. We honor fallen officers and raise awareness of the sacrifices these officers have made while protecting and serving their communities .
Cops on Top plans climbing expeditions to the world's most respected mountains. The purpose is to bring to the attention of the public, the dangers and life-altering stresses that the average police officer must endure during day-to-day police operations. A fallen officer's memory serves as our banner and a memorial is placed on each summit attempted.
Each Cops on Top team is comprised of largely self-funded volunteer climbers. In 2004 the Louisville Metro Police Department Team will attempt an expedition in memory of a local hero, Officer Eddie Mundo Jr., who died in the line of duty on April 16, 2003 . The expedition will pay tribute by climbing the highest point in South America , ? Mount Aconcagua ? located in Argentina and placing a memorial on the summit. Upon the team's return to Louisville , we will formally present a memorial to Officer Mundo's family.
This expedition will receive extensive media coverage, bringing positive attention to our profession as well as our cause. Upon return, the expedition members will present informative and motivational programs to our local schools. The presentations have been done at no cost to the school, and have been conducted in an off-duty status. One such targeted school is a past participant, Newburg Middle School. The presentations center on the actual expedition, but the underlying themes are goal setting and overcoming personal ?mountains?. I have personally received numerous letters from school children who come to view police as individuals and who participate in positive, healthy activities?and not just ?lock up the bad guys?. It has been very rewarding to share with young people how setting and achieving goals can help them reach their dreams. It is particularly exciting that this expedition will employ technology that will enable the local school children to receive photos and e-mail in real time from the expedition in progress.