Chief Noel C. March, lecturer of justice studies and community policing at the University of Maine at Augusta (UMA), has been selected to participate in a significant educational program titled Operationalizing Never Again: The Role of Law Enforcement in the Holocaust and Contemporary Genocide. This groundbreaking program is a collaboration between Rutgers University, the University of Virginia’s Center for Public Safety and Justice (CPSJ), and the Global Consortium for Law Enforcement Training Executives (GCLETE).
Chief March will join law enforcement leaders from around the world to explore the crucial historical lessons learned from the role of law enforcement in Nazi Germany, particularly the actions of Reserve Battalion 101, and their relevance to contemporary policing. The program includes immersive training, historical case studies and experiential learning, including participation in the International March of the Living in Krakow, Poland.
“I am honored to take part in this pivotal program that aligns with my commitment to educating future law enforcement leaders on ethical decision-making, accountability and the prevention of human rights abuses,” said Chief March. “It’s essential that we draw lessons from history to ensure the protection of human rights and the dignity of all individuals in today’s society.”
The Operationalizing Never Again program aims to provide law enforcement executives and educators with the tools to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and make decisions that uphold justice in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape. Participants will gain insights into law enforcement’s complicity during the Holocaust and engage in discussions on preventing modern-day atrocities.
“The program represents a powerful opportunity for law enforcement leaders to examine their roles in shaping the future of policing and community relations,” said John J. Farmer, Jr., director of the Miller Center at Rutgers University. “Chief March’s participation exemplifies the commitment of law enforcement professionals to ensuring that such atrocities are never repeated.”
The training program will include pre-trip virtual seminars, on-site sessions in Poland and post-trip assignments. Participants will also receive training in ethical decision-making and active bystandership, alongside workshops on applying historical lessons to modern policing.
This initiative is a critical step toward fostering stronger, more ethical leadership within law enforcement agencies globally. It is particularly timely in addressing the increasing need for law enforcement agencies to reflect on their responsibilities in upholding democratic values and preventing human rights violations.
For more information on the program and its objectives, please contact SCPS-CPSJ@virginia.edu.
About Chief Noel C. March
Chief Noel C. March is a lecturer in justice studies and community policing at the University of Maine at Augusta. With a distinguished background in law enforcement leadership, Chief March is committed to advancing the education of future public safety leaders and promoting ethical policing practices.