ABOUT US
Pipe Major: Tom McKeown    Pipe Sergeant: Tom Fortis    
Drum Major: Dave Kennedy


The Chester County Emerald Society is a non-profit organization
that represents the interests of our county police officers, the proud
men and women who protect and serve our families and
businesses. The Society works toward developing an atmosphere,
in which the police and our community works together to reduce
crime. We also recognize the contributions made by fellow Irish
Americans and help to preserve our heritage. The CCES was formed
in 2001 and is a member of the National Conference of Law
Enforcement Emerald Societies.

On July 27th 2005, John Clifford, Dan McKeown & Tom McKeown met
at the West End Fire Company in Coatesville to discuss the
formation of a Chester County Emerald Society Pipe Band. Tom
McKeown, an accomplished Piper with over 20 years experience
agreed to serve as the Band’s Pipe Major and instructor.  

In mid August 2005, the first practice session was held at the West
End Fire Co. Twelve members of the Emerald Society were in
attendance. Of the twelve, only two members had any prior music
experience. Since then, the band has practiced every Wednesday at
the West End Fire Co. and made their public debut on March 16th,
2007 at the Annual CCES Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration.

In less than two years the Band has grown to include 16 pipers, 4
drummers and a Drum Major. The band membership is comprised of
a voluntary group of Chester County law enforcement officers and
approved civilians who have the necessary musical skill and who
share a belief in the Chester County Emerald Society Pipe Band’s
mission.

The mission of the CCES Pipe Band is to develop and maintain a
band that is dedicated to the highest standards of professionalism,
deportment and musical quality. The band’s commitment to
excellence is guided by our understanding that we represent not
only the Chester County Emerald Society but also all Chester
County Public Safety Professionals.

The band is committed to providing a professional image in all band
performances. These performances include (but are not limited to):
Parades, Law Enforcement and Fire Department ceremonies, Public
Service educational performances and most importantly, Police &
Fire Fighter funerals or memorials.