The 16 police officers who completed their Basic Police Training course smile for the cameras on Wednesday at the police headquarters in Philipsburg.
PHILIPSBURG--The St. Maarten Police Force KPSM can now boast of having a second class of full-fledged police officers added to its service as the Class of 2016 received their certificates of completion. Sixteen officers took the Basic Police Training (Basis Politie Opleiding) and the force held a ceremony commemorating the milestone on Wednesday morning, at the Philipsburg police station.
As many as 24 cadets started the theoretical training followed by practical on-the-job training back in 2016, but only 16 completed the intense course, while some will be given the opportunity to complete the course in time.
Minister of Justice Cornelius de Weever said, in his address on Wednesday, that he is very proud of the Class of 2016.
“They are a true testament of commitment, and I would like to call this graduating group the Class of Perseverance. You must be congratulated for not only passing the course, but for enduring all the challenges along the way, which also included Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Congratulations to the families, friends and colleagues who had to endure and encourage you to persevere,” said De Weever.
“As you are already aware, the duties of a police officer mainly focus on protecting people and property. They patrol the areas they are assigned, respond to calls, enforce laws, make arrests, issue citations, and occasionally testify in court cases. What you and the general public may not be aware of is the reality that there can be no tourism without our police officers, there can be no recovery without you and there can be no prosperity without our law enforcement.
“You provide the safety and security for us who live here and for the millions who visit as well. I would like to encourage you to read, read as much as possible, invest in yourself and don’t forget to write as well. Write those traffic tickets and police reports to ensure that our social order is maintained and prevention will be achieved. Life learning will help you to continue to grow in your career.”
In his closing remarks, De Weever said, ”In order to achieve continued success continue to exhibit good conduct, responsibility, team spirit, professionalism, reliability, commitment and leadership skills. These are all qualities of great leaders. Do not compromise your principles, do not compromise yourself, your class, your Force or your island. Continue to make St. Maarten proud.
“I must repeat and acknowledge the work that all of you did during the entire Carnival season. I am very proud of this Force and will continue to invest and facilitate what is due to you. This graduating class today brings us a step closer to filling the gaps at the St. Maarten Police Force.”
Governor Eugene Holiday and Parliament Chairperson Sarah Wescot-Williams were among several dignitaries, families and friends present to witness the officers receiving their completion diplomas. The police are presently training immigration officers and plan to start the next class of potential officers later this year.
