If the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force is going to continue to make strides in serving and protecting this country, a person of Dwight Lewis’ calibre would most likely be one of their best assets.

On Thursday February 15, at the 26th passing out parade of recruits at the Old Montrose Police Station, PC 346 Lewis’ name was repeatedly announced as he was awarded the Baton of Honour and Commissioner’s Trophy beating out 49 of his colleagues.{{more}}

Lewis was also adjudged as Best Recruit, Most Disciplined, Best at Physical Training, Best at Police Duty Subjects and the Dr. Cecil Cyrus Trophy.

Lewis, who would be attached to the Coast Guard unit, told SEARCHLIGHT that it was not an easy task from the start but he knew what his main goal was. “It was hard work, real hard work and I am happy this day has come,” said an elated Lewis.

Addressing the ceremony, Acting Commissioner of Police, Bertie Pompey urged the new cops not be daunted by the task ahead but to keep their focus. He told the officers that from time to time their duties may take them above and beyond the bounds of their job description, “This is something that moulds you in becoming a good police officer, while helping to build your personality.”

Delivering brief remarks, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves told the officers that they are the country’s first line of defence and they must take their job seriously.

The Prime Minister applauded the local constabulary for their professional service providing security at the recently concluded 18th Caricom Heads of Government Conference. He said the Police have to be driven by superior intelligence and urged them to take every opportunity available to them.

Feature speaker, Dr Julian Ferdinand showered praises on the new recruits for completing one of the most demanding tasks one could go through. Ferdinand told the officers that in their call of duty they will encounter problems but “you must not compromise your principle regardless of your relationship with a perpetrator.”

He urged the officers to always be willing to learn from their colleagues and don’t go about thinking they know everything.