Four members of Course #12 of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) on Saturday, July 15, celebrate 30 years of service in the constabulary.

It was on Thursday, July 15, 1993 that 20 young men enlisted as police officers; thirty years later only four are still serving as police officers, a police release states.

They are: Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Junior Simmons; Sub-Lieutenant (Sub Lt.), Vincent Gordon; Sergeant of Police # 264, Dwight Matthews; and Sergeant of Police # 211 Renford Jack.

The release adds that the officers have expressed their excitement and satisfaction in reaching this important milestone.

“I choose to become a police officer 30 years ago because I wanted to serve the people of SVG.

“Being a police officer is not an easy job. It is tough, demanding, and very high risk. But I am more resolved today to continue to serve because I believe that there is nothing nobler than to serve one’s country -especially in uniform. I thank the Almighty God for his protection, my family for their patience, love, and support, and my colleagues for helping to shape my career,” said ASP Simmons.

“I have absolutely no regrets about my policing career. It has helped to make me into who I am today. I am a better person because of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force. The organization prepares you for the world out there,” Sub Lt Gordon said.

Sgt. 264 Matthews said: “Firstly, I must give thanks to the Almighty God for giving me strength and preserving my life to reach such a milestone in this noble organization. It was a challenging thirty years, but once you trust in the Lord with all your heart everything will follow after.”

Sergeant Matthews added that he has been attached to the Police Band since March, 7,1994, “and I truly love spreading joy to the people through music, and teaching young people how to play musical instruments.”

Sergeant 211 Jack expressed being equally proud to have been serving the people of SVG.

“… There were very good days and some not so good but I persevered. I have gained much experience throughout my career in the organization. I have worked in several departments and police stations which has helped to increase my knowledge and better equip me to continue to serve my country.”

The four officers also pay tribute to their other 16 course mates who enlisted with them but have since left the organization for other careers.

Commissioner of Police, Colin John, the gazetted officers, and other ranks of the RSVGPF have extended congratulations to the officers on their achievement and dedication to duty and service to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the RSVGPF.