Michael Sellars: A True Friend and Champion of the Reserve Corps
The Reserve Unit was devastated by the loss of the great Michael Sellars. He was the co-president of the Los Angeles Police Reserve Foundation and a retired reserve officer, but beyond titles and accomplishments, Michael was our friend, our partner and one of the true champions of the Reserve Corps.
My friendship with Michael began several years ago, when I was still an FTO at Hollywood Division. I had just been selected to serve as the new divisional reserve coordinator, coincidentally only a few weeks after Michael had retired as a reserve officer. I quickly learned that Michael’s idea of retirement was similar to most reserves’ belief in the concept of a day off: it existed more in theory than in practice. Even after retiring, he remained deeply involved in the daily operations of the reserves at Hollywood Division.
From the beginning, Michael was warm, welcoming and eager to share his experience. He made himself available at all hours to answer questions, provide historical context and teach me about the culture and traditions of the Reserve Corps. Looking back, I can say with confidence that it was Michael Sellars, more than anyone else, who shaped my understanding and appreciation of what the LAPD Reserve Corps truly represents. He spent countless hours explaining the history of the program, the triumphs and missteps of previous coordinators, and how each era had affected morale and effectiveness.
What stood out most to me was how he approached these conversations. Michael never spoke to criticize or dwell on negativity. Even when a topic seemed entirely bleak, he always managed to find something positive to take away from it. Every discussion with him was thoughtful, forward-looking and filled with quiet wisdom. The lessons I learned from Michael could never be found in a policy book or training manual, and I am grateful that those conversations continued for the rest of his life.
Michael was as generous with his time as he was with his praise. He often went out of his way to recognize the accomplishments of others, sharing kind words about me and my colleagues with command staff or fellow reserves. In a profession where praise can sometimes be rare, his encouragement meant a great deal. After I promoted to sergeant and completed probation, it was Michael who recommended me for my current position. He stuck his neck out for me long before I even knew a vacancy was coming, but that was the kind of friend he was: fiercely loyal, endlessly supportive and always motivated by genuine care rather than self-interest.
Above all, Michael Sellars loved the LAPD Reserve Corps with his whole heart. He believed deeply in the mission, the people and the history of the program. His dedication to the well-being of every reserve officer never wavered, and his legacy will continue to guide the Corps for many years to come. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered and truly impossible to replace.