The name Ron McCarthy is both legendary and highly revered in the field of law enforcement tactical operations.

Ron’s career and contributions spanned nearly 60 years. A period over which he served with distinction as a police officer and SWAT supervisor.  Ron developed innovative advances in tactics and equipment, and influenced countless people as a trainer, mentor and role model.

As a young man, Ron enlisted and served in the United States Navy. He then joined the Los Angeles Police Department, working patrol in south-central Los Angeles before transferring to the Metropolitan Division, where he became one of the earliest members of LAPD SWAT.

Ron’s performance and contributions with LAPD SWAT were exceptional and he remains an iconic figure within that unit.  In 1974, Ron received the department’s Medal of Valor for his actions during a protracted gunfight with the Symbionese Liberation Army, commonly referred to as the SLA Shootout.

After his retirement as a sergeant from LAPD in 1984, Ron held tactical training and leadership positions with the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police, where he placed an emphasis on decision making for SWAT command staff.

When Ron eventually left public service, he established his own company, R.M. McCarthy and Associates, where he committed his time to developing advancements in body armor and less-lethal weapons for law enforcement. During this period, Ron frequently served as an expert witness in the defense of police officers, often at no charge.

Ron’s contributions to the NTOA were monumental. He served as a trainer, author, and member of the Board of Directors for nearly 25 years, first as a Regional Director and then as a Director Emeritus. He had great influence on the ethical and professional bearing of our association.

Ron’s passion and commitment to our profession and to his family were unparalleled. He had an impact on countless lives and gave nothing but the best in his effort to serve others.