Interesting thoughts as President Obama and Mayor Daley want the Olympics in Chicago. This article supports the arguments of the anti-2016 people.

G20 summit gives Palm Beach County sheriff's team real-world testing

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer

Monday, September 28, 2009

For 16 members of the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office Emergency Field Force Team, it was an opportunity to test their training in a real-world environment.

The group was among the law enforcement agencies chosen to assist with security at the Pittsburgh G-20 summit. Officers arrived in Pittsburgh Sept. 22 and returned to South Florida in a caravan Monday evening.

"There were so many different emotions," Lt. William Bruckner said. "First we were very proud that we were representing the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and we were given the opportunity by Sheriff Ric Bradshaw to go up there. Second, assisting another agency with such an overwhelming event ... the people were just phenomenal."

Bruckner said the unit was first assigned to assist in protecting bridges and rivers from anyone trying to sneak in devices. They also helped guard the motorcade route for visiting presidents, including President Obama.

Armed with pepper ball guns, 40mm guns and gas masks, the group later broke up protests and quelled disturbances.

"It was a real-world situation," Cpl. Stuart Sussman said. "It was a great opportunity to learn from other officers, from other agencies across the nation. I was very proud for the citizens of Palm Beach County. They should feel safe and know that we have one of the top agencies in the country."