Cheap Shot by Lynch

To the Editor:

In his Sept. 21 paid advertisement, PBA President Patrick Lynch referred to the auxiliary police as a " ... phony police presence .." Apparently frustrated by his inability to settle contract talks with the Mayor, Mr. Lynch gave the auxiliary police an unwarranted poke in the eye by this remark.

For more than 50 years, auxiliary police have been second to none in their admiration and enthusiasm for the NYPD and its officers. Every year, dozens of auxiliary police officers test for and enter the Police Academy, becoming police officers and members of the PBA. Often, it is their experience as auxiliaries that gives them their first exposure to this great career.

Instead of giving the auxiliary police a kick in the pants, Mr. Lynch should show some appreciation for the loyalty, commitment and support that auxiliary police show the city, the NYPD and his members.

Auxiliary police deserve respect.

JOHN W. HYLAND, President, Auxiliary Police Benevolent Association