Public Employee Press

DC 37's Everyday Heroes
A meeting with an appreciative president

For almost three decades, Local 983 Tow Truck Operator Clarence Baugh has worked clearing the jammed streets of New York City of traffic to make way for United States presidents. Last September he had the privilege of meeting the 44th head of state as President Barack Obama carved out time from his four-day visit to the United Nations to meet the DC 37 member.

"It was truly an honor," said Baugh. A Tow Truck Operator for the New York Police Dept., Baugh secures traffic routes and has served four United States presidents - George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, who he once met, George W. Bush and now Obama.

When the Secret Service called to say President Obama wanted to meet Baugh personally, he said, "It was unforgettable."

"President Obama is awesome and approachable. He listens and is working hard for us. He told me he appreciates the job I do and to keep up the good work," Baugh said.

The 29-year NYPD veteran leads a sweep team that clears the way and removes all obstacles so that Police Officers driving NYPD vehicles and motorcycles can safely escort the president and his motorcade - a convoy that includes limousines, an ambulance, a bomb squad, and SVUs transporting White House personnel and press. Routes and alternates are planned and mapped in advance to speedily whisk the president to and from JFK Airport in Queens and various stops in Manhattan.

Many would say it would take a tough and burly Tow Operator to face down irate New Yorkers whose vehicles are being removed, but Baugh has a different approach.

Polite, respectful and calm, Baugh, sharp in his trim NYPD uniform, stays collected, smiles and keeps cool. But when there is any unauthorized vehicle found on the presidential route, he hooks the vehicle to his gleaming white truck and swiftly hauls it away.

A White House photographer captured the impromptu afternoon meeting between the U.S. president and the DC 37 public servant. The picture appeared in newspapers and online and sparked a wave of pride among Local 983 members, Baugh's family, and DC 37.

— Diane S. Williams