[Cullman, AL. | February 24, 2026] The City of Cullman was recognized today for its growing and continued support of the Alabama chapter of the STAR International Police Exchange (IPE) Program, as Lt. Eric W. Cole of the Cullman Police Department presented Mayor Woody Jacobs with a commemorative plaque at City Hall.
The plaque serves as a token of appreciation for the City’s partnership and involvement in the STAR IPE Program, which fosters professional development and lasting friendships between law enforcement officers in Alabama, Germany, and Spain.
“This plaque represents our gratitude for the City of Cullman’s continued support of the STAR International Police Exchange Program,” said Lt. Eric W. Cole, Operations Lieutenant with the Cullman Police Department and current leader of the Alabama STAR IPE Chapter. “From City administration to Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism and our Police Department, it has truly been a team effort. The City’s help with transportation, activities, and coordination made 2025 an outstanding and productive year for the program. I look forward to continuing to grow this partnership and strengthening our connection with our friends in Germany.”
The STAR IPE Program, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, began with a shared bond between police officers in Hamburg, Germany, and Los Angeles, California. Today, chapters operate across Germany, Spain, and the United States. Each year, Germany hosts an exchange in the spring, Spain in the summer, and American agencies in the fall. Officers participate in a two-week professional and cultural exchange, staying with host officers and their families while learning about each country’s equipment, procedures, and training methods.
The Alabama STAR IPE Chapter was established in 2009 in the Decatur area. For many years, the Cullman Police Department has served as a host agency, welcoming international officers to tour facilities, observe training, and engage with agencies across the state.
In 2025, the City of Cullman played an especially important role in supporting the program. Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism coordinated activities that coincided with the City’s annual Oktoberfest celebration, providing guests with an authentic experience that left a strong impression. Several visiting officers even returned during their free time to enjoy more of the festival.
Transportation for a traveling group of officers across Alabama can present logistical challenges, but the City helped address that need by providing a City van so participants could travel together. This support allowed for smoother coordination and more meaningful time spent building professional and personal connections.
“We’re glad to be part of something that builds real relationships,” said Mayor Woody Jacobs. “Programs like this give people the chance to learn from each other and see how others do their work. We’re proud to support it and proud that Cullman can play a small role in strengthening those international ties.”
AL STAR IPE is a two-week professional exchange between law enforcement officers from Alabama, Germany, and Spain. The program balances professional development with cultural immersion and personal connection, creating lasting relationships while offering valuable insight into different approaches to policing across nations.
For more information about the STAR International Police Exchange Program, contact Lt. Eric W. Cole, Operations Lieutenant, Cullman Police Department, at (256) 775-7175.
