Island Welcomes Two New Officers to Police Department
By Leslie Rott

Officer Martin Hauger

After losing two seasonal police officers to full-time positions elsewhere, Mackinac Island Police Department has gained two new faces who are ready and eager to serve the Island community.

Officer Martin Hauger

Officer Martin Hauger is 31 years old and hails from Southfield. He was graduated from Lutheran High School Northwest in Rochester Hills and then the Oakland Fire Training Institute in April 2002.

While attending the Oakland Fire Training Institute, Mr. Hauger met a cadet who was studying at the fire training institute and the police academy simultaneously so that he could become a public safety officer. The cadet sparked his interest in law enforcement and he decided to go to the police academy. Mr. Hauger’s brother is a firefighter for the Southfield Fire Department.

Officer John Beam, Jr.

Before going to the police academy, he attended Oakland Community College, where he received an associate’s degree in general studies. He was then graduated from the Oakland Police Academy in December 2004.

Officer Hauger used to do landscaping work in Southfield, but realized that it was not the job for him. He said he also knew he did not want to do an office job and thought law enforcement would be fun.

“I would have gone anywhere in the country to be a police officer,” he said of coming to Mackinac Island. His first impressions of the Island? He is struck by the crystal clear water, the gorgeous scenery, and all of the stars at night, which cannot be seen in the suburbs. He also is impressed by the peace and quiet, where one can have fun, as well, he said.

Officer John Beam, Jr.

Officer John Beam, Jr. is from Reed City. He is an Eagle Scout and attended Ferris State University, where he majored in law enforcement and minored in psychology.

He got his interest in law enforcement from his father, a state trooper who was stationed on the Island for two years 15 years ago.

Officer Beam enjoys the rest and relaxation that he can have on his days off and thinks the Island is a fun place to be.

He also enjoys meeting new people.