National Police Remembrance Day held a special significance for local businessman Paul Bartlett who attended the Childers service in memory of his grandfather Cecil Bartlett, a former Officer in Charge of Childers Police.
The commemoration service was observed at the Childers Fire and Emergency Services facility and was led by current Officer in Charge of Childers Police Sergeant Geoff Fay.
The event attracted representatives from kindred services including ambulance, fire and SES with local clergy and representatives of Council and State Member Steve Bennett. A strong contingent of community members was also present.
Paul Bartlett said his father had commenced service as a police officer in 1937 finally retiring in December 1962.
“His career spanned across nine postings with Bundaberg Station being the final posting of his 25 year career. Childers always held a special place in his service memories,” Paul said.
Sergeant Fay was joined in presenting the 40 minute ceremony by Childers Police staff, Police Chaplain Pastor Alan Brown, Volunteer in Policing (VIP) Barry Cochrane and Reverend Susan Baker, all of who played an active role.
Sergeant Fay read a message from Queensland Police Commissioner Katrina Carroll APM.
Pastor Alan Brown said police service was, in fact, an act of love for community, family and friends.
“This year we are honouring the life of Senior Constable David Masters as well as all those officers whose names are inscribed on monument in various locations across the nation.
“Senior Constable Masters was killed in June this year while endeavouring to intercept a stolen vehicle.”
“The saying ‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends’ is the virtue by which Senior Constable Masters and many others had pursued in their police careers,” said Pastor Brown.
Wreaths and floral arrangements were laid as a mark of respect to those officers killed in the line of duty during the Childers National Police Remembrance Day ceremony.
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