Antigua and Barbuda police bid farewell to stalwarts

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has bid farewell to three long-serving police officers at a pre-retirement ceremony.

Deputy Commissioner Ivor David, Assistant Commissioner McLean Hunte and Assistant Superintendent Conrad Kellman – who between them have 122 years of combined service – said goodbye to colleagues at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium last week.

The ceremony, which was attended by Commissioner of Police Wendel Robinson and several other senior officers, began with the reading of a poem called You’re a Policeman.

In a speech, Robinson thanked the men for their loyalty, devotion and dedication to the organisation, and by extension the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.

He wished them well on their retirement, and at the same time thanked their families for the many sacrifices made.

Several other officers also spoke on behalf of the retirees, including Deputy Commissioner Joseph Hughes.

He shared many memorable moments working with his colleagues before thanking them for their service.

‘Wrong and right’

Responding to the tributes, outgoing Deputy Commissioner David spoke of the three foundation pillars on which he built his career in the police force.

“Knowledge, courage and integrity” are what kept him going, he said, and he encouraged his colleagues to have enough courage to call wrong “wrong” and right “right,” and to let integrity be their daily guide.

The trio were presented with plaques and fruit baskets as token of appreciation, while their families were presented with floral bouquets.

David and Kellman are due to be officially retired in September, each with 41 years of service.

Hunte will retire in November after 40 years of service.