Millennium Magazine_7th Ed

251 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine LAW AND LAW ENFORCEMENT response to save lives and reduce injury, Project Lifesaver has rescued more than 3,600 lives to date since its inception in Chesapeake, Virginia, in 1999. Equipping “at risk” individuals with devices that utilize radio transmitters that emit individualized frequency signals, Project Lifesaver also consults with local law enforcement agencies to best approach the individual once they are found and bring them home safely. Mr. Saunders draws upon a background of law enforcement as a former captain of the Chesapeake Police Department in Virginia, holding the post from 1968 to 2001. Supported by a certificate in police administration from the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville and an FAA drone pilot license, he has also served as a helicopter flight officer for the Virginia Beach Police Department. A former serviceman in the U.S. Army Reserves, Mr. Saunders was designated to the military police unit early on in his career. In addition to his posts in the police department, he was a commander of the SWAT Team for 23 years, through which he was first introduced to special operations of search and rescue teams. He has maintained membership with the International Police Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Florida Chiefs of Police Association and the National Sheriffs Association. Married for more than 40 years, Mr. Saunders is the proud father of four sons and grandfather of nine grandchildren. He has accrued several accolades throughout his career, including a Citizens Service Award, People of Distinction Award, Chief’s Award for Leadership and the Silver Star of Valor. Looking ahead, he intends to further develop Project Lifesaver and provide service to all individuals who need it at no cost to them. G ene Saunders is the founder and chief executive officer of Project Lifesaver International, a nonprofit organization that focuses its efforts on the search and rescue of individuals with cognitive conditions who are prone to life threatening behaviors of wandering. With a mission to provide a timely GENE SAUNDERS FOUNDER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Project Lifesaver International Port St. Lucie, FL