John E. McMahon
Roots of the Fraternal Order of Police
Our History
In 1915, working conditions for police officers were grueling—long hours, low wages, and no job protections. Two Pittsburgh officers, Martin Toole and Delbert Nagle, began discussing how officers could organize to advocate for change.
On May 14, 1915, 23 officers officially met and formed what would become the Fraternal Order of Police. Despite resistance from leadership, they persisted and gained support from Pittsburgh's mayor, paving the way for formal recognition.
By the end of that year, the organization was officially chartered, and improvements like guaranteed days off were achieved. Their success inspired departments nationwide, leading to the creation of local lodges and a national Grand Lodge.
Today, the FOP represents over 277,000 members across thousands of lodges, even internationally. The FOP’s star symbol and motto—“Jus, Fidus, Libertatum” (“Law is a Safeguard of Freedom”)—represent their enduring mission and values.
About The FOP Star
The Emblem
Adopted by the National Fraternal Order of Police is designed to remind the membership of the duties that are expected of them as a citizen, a police officer and a member of the lodge. The five-cornered star tends to remind us of the allegiance we owe to our Flag and is a symbol of the authority with which we are entrusted. It is an honor the people we serve bestow upon us. They place their confidence and trust in us; serve them proudly.
Our Colors
Midway between the points and center of the star is a blue field representative of the thin blue line protecting those we serve. The points are of gold, which indicates the position under which we are now serving. The background is white, the unstained color representing the purity with which we should serve. We shall not let anything corrupt be injected into our order. Therefore, our colors are blue, gold and white.
Our Symbols
The open eye is the eye of vigilance ever looking for danger and protecting all those under its care while they sleep or while awake. The clasped hands denote friendship. The hand of friendship is always extended to those in need of our comfort.
JUS, FIDUS, LIBERTATUM
The circle surrounding the star midway indicates our never ending efforts to promote the welfare and advancement of this order. Within the half circle over the centerpiece is our motto, "Jus, Fidus, Libertatum" which translated means "Law Is a Safeguard of Freedom."