THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2026 Page 5 Revere-based Horses and Heroes Foundation Mourns Passing of Virginia Beach Police Horse By Tara Vocino V irginia Beach Police horse Jusino passed away recently from colic, and those who knew him refl ected on his legacy. Jusino, or JJ., joined the Virginia Beach Mounted Patrol in 2015 through The Horses and Heroes Foundation, based out of Revere, Mass., and was named in honor of Massachusetts Police Offi cer John Jusino. Jusino of the Chicopee Police Department and Massachusetts State Trooper John Vasquez received the Trooper George Hanna Medal of Valor. The offi cers were honored for their life-saving actions during a dangerous shooting and hostagetaking incident on April 13, 2012, on West Street in Chicopee, Mass. Despite Vasquez sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, Jusino and his fellow offi cers displayed extraordinary courage and selfl essness to rescue him from the line of fi re. Named after fallen Massachusetts State Trooper George Hanna, the award is the state’s highest law enforcement honor, recognizing exceptional bravery. Horses and Heroes Foundation President Skyllar Mulvanney said the legacy that Jusino will leave behind is naming horses after offi cers so they will be remembered long after the offi cer has retired or died in the line of duty. “[Jusino’s passing is a] stark reminder about true heroic offi cers and what they do to keep us safe,” Mulvanney said. “Jusino meant a lot to the Foundation because of who is was named after and the heroic moment when Offi cer Jusino saved the life of a Massachusetts State Trooper.” Mulvanney added that it signifi es profound respect, remembrance and the honoring of a legacy. “Rest in peace, JJ,” she said. Colin Elliot, Special Operations Bureau Captain, of the VBPD, said Jusino wsas more than a horse; he was a steadfast anchor for Special Operations and a gentle giant to Virginia Beach. “He carried our mission with unmatched grace, bringing calm and joy wherever he went,” Elliot said. “While his stable feels empty after his peaceful passing, his legacy of loyal service is a permanent part of our department’s history.” Friends of the Virginia Beach Mounted Police Vice President Ann Miller said Jusino will be dearly missed in the barn and in their community but will forever be in their hearts. “Jusino was a lovable horse that helped train numerous unit members through the years Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. Shown from left to right: Offi cer Jusino, horse Jusino and son Offi cer Jusino Jr. (Courtesy photo, Horses and Heroes Foundation President Skyllar Mulvanney) 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 Checking that pays you $20 a month. It’s easy: Open a checking account and each month maintain an average balance of $5,000, make $1,500 in direct deposits, and complete three transactions of any kind.* *New checking account customers only. and was dedicated to serving the citizens of the community,” Miller said. “Whether he was on patrol, at a community event or working on a therapy session, his calm demeanor put everyone at ease.” The Virginia Beach Police Department Mounted Patrol released a statement on the horse’s passing: “Some horses carry riders,” they said. “[But] JJ carried a community.” They added that his service, patience and heart touched more lives than they’ll ever be able to count. They were blessed to have him as part of the Mounted Patrol’s family, and he will be deeply missed.
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