Staff Writer

The newest addition to the Troy Police Department’s force may not look tough, but the former drill sergeant is proving to other officers she is.

Julita L. Brown is only the second woman to wear a TPD uniform. She is following in the footsteps of Sgt. Calista Everage, who works in the Detective Division.

Today, marks four weeks Brown has been working with the local police department and she is enjoying the job.

"I’ve always wanted to be in law enforcement," Brown said. "It’s been a long-time dream of mine.

"I’m proud to be a part of the Troy Police Department."

Troy Police Chief Anthony Everage is also proud she has joined the department.

"She brings quality to the job and I hope she will be here for years to come," Everage said of his newest officer.

Already, Brown has proven to be "an excellent officer," the police chief said.

As only the second female to wear the TPD badge, Brown brings "a different dimension" to the department.

"It gives a sense Troy is actually growing," Brown said of her joining the force. "It also shows the younger generations if you have a dream, that dream can come true if you work at it."

Brown grew up in Benton Harbor, Mich., but found her way to Troy because her husband is stationed at Fort Rucker and they chose to live here.

She may be new to Troy, but she’s not unaccustomed to wearing a uniform.

Brown spent 16 years in the military before taking an early retirement. She most recently worked two years for the Montgomery Police Department.

What she enjoys the most about law enforcement is working with the public, said the self-professed "people person" who has a brilliant smile to match her attitude and aptitude.

"I’m approachable," Brown said, acknowledging some are not sure what to think when they see a female officer.

"People look at me strangely, but I enjoy talking to people."

Brown said she hopes the citizens of Troy will quickly adjust to seeing a female riding around town in a patrol car and will find she is someone they can approach whether they have a problem or not.