THE pain is still raw, but the legacy Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson left behind won’t be forgotten.
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The Port Stephens Local Area Command joined together on Thursday night in another tribute to their fallen colleague and friend attended by NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione.
The 43-year-old died in March after his police vehicle crashed into a tree during a pursuit.
In his speech, Commissioner Scipione said Port Stephens LAC was defined by its camaraderie even before the tragic accident.
He said Sgt Richardson “made the greatest sacrifice any person could make”.
“He gave his life in the service of others and we should remember that part of our promise to him, was to honour his memory by following his example,” Commissioner Scipione said.
“We should all take this opportunity to make our own commitment to honour his sacrifice by following his example.”
Sgt Richardson’s wife, Senior Constable Margie King, was presented with the flag that was draped over her husband’s funeral coffin as a symbol of pride, courage and sacrifice.
The night, held at Fingal Bay, was not only about Sgt Richardson.
It was also about recognising the officers and staff from the command, and their achievements.
“This evening’s ceremony provides an important opportunity to offer the thanks and recognition that you deserve,” Commissioner Scipione said in his speech.
“Whether it’s for a particular achievement or contribution, or for reaching a professional milestone, my thanks and those of the police executive go to you all.”
Port Stephens police commander, Superintendent Chris Craner, said the awards had not been held for a number of years and Thursday’s event was not a traditional ceremony.
It was the first time the awards were held out of uniform, in a function centre rather than a two-hour hall presentation, and was followed by a dinner with entertainment.
“The Commissioner said he has never attended an awards quite like this one,” Superintendent Craner said.
“We wanted to do something different this year. Geoff Richardson was my protocol officer and he had been organising it. We took it over and decided to make it bigger and better, to reward staff for their efforts.”
More than 90 awards were handed out on Thursday night.
Amongst them was the National Medal second clasp plus the NSW Police Medal for serving 35 years in the force, which went to Senior Constable John Simmons, an officer for the Highway and Patrol Command based at Raymond Terrace.
Sgt Geoff Farmer received the Northern Region Commendation Award.
