SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday morning on the Santa Monica Pier, passersby observed a disciplined formation of young men and women running in unison, chanting military-style cadences as part of their morning physical training. The group, part of the Santa Monica Police Department’s 87th Explorer Academy, took to the beach and boardwalk to complete calisthenics and running drills under the guidance of uniformed Santa Monica police officers.
The 87th Academy class is held in tribute to Officer Rick Crocker, a U.S. Marine and beloved Santa Monica police officer who was killed by a rocket-propelled grenade during his deployment in Iraq on May 26, 2005. Prior to his military service, Crocker was known for his work with the Police Activities League (PAL), where he championed mentorship programs for local youth.
The Santa Monica Police Explorer program is a career education initiative for young adults aged 14 to 21, offering hands-on experience in law enforcement. Participants engage in a wide array of training and activities including ride-alongs, traffic control, disaster assistance, and community events. To qualify, applicants must meet a range of criteria, including maintaining a minimum “C” grade average, good moral standing, physical fitness, and successful graduation from the South Bay Regional Law Enforcement Explorer Academy.
Saturday’s workout was part of a broader effort to instill discipline, leadership, and civic responsibility in the next generation of law enforcement professionals—while keeping alive the legacy of an officer who believed deeply in youth mentorship.
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📍 Santa Monica Closeup will continue to follow community-based public safety programs and highlight the stories shaping local youth engagement.
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