Lab med technologist Long Beach reserve police officer Published March 31, 2008 By 030308 Keesler AFB, Miss. -- By Steve Pivnick 81st Medical Group Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. - He may not be a caped crusader but William Hansen is doing his part to fight crime. Mr. Hansen, a medical technologist with the 81st Medical Operations Squadron Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Flight, serves as a reserve police officer with the Long Beach police department. "I became a reserve police officer in 1998," he said. "We handle special events, provide prisoner transport to court and court security. We also supplement the regular patrols." He pointed out that the Long Beach PD currently has 12 reserve patrolmen, three fewer than before Hurricane Katrina. "It's difficult to get someone to commit their time," he continued. Mr. Hansen, the assistant reserve chief, said that reserve members must complete 14 weeks of police academy training to receive certification as a part-time police officer. "After completing the academy, reservists have to complete the department's field training program, which could last from six months to a year, depending on the time they can devote to training. A regular police officer normally completes field training in about eight weeks." Mr. Hansen, who has been with Keesler Medical Center six years, was recognized for his police work during and after Katrina. He received the Armed Forces Civilian Services Medal covering the period Aug. 29, 2005-Feb. 27, 2006. He is also actively recruiting new reservists. Long Beach is accepting applications. Applicants do not have to be Long Beach residents, he said. However, they must be 21 years of age or older, high school graduates and of good moral character. Anyone interested in becoming a Long Beach reserve police officer may call Mr. Hansen at (228) 596-3621 or e-mail lbpd102@cableone.net .