Outgoing Police Commissioner Reynell Fraser is greeted by Deputy Premier Dr. Kedrick Pickering at the parade this morning. Photo: VINO

A picture for keeps! Commissioner Frazer (centre front, with hands in front) takes a photograph with the top brass of the RVIPF, along with Governor Boyd McCleary (2nd from right), Premier Dr. D. Orlando Smith (3rd from left) and Deputy Premier Dr. Kedrick Pickering (right). Photo: VINO

Mr. Reynell Frazer takes the honours at his final march past as Commissioner of the RVIPF. Photo: VINO

A picture for keeps! Commissioner Frazer (centre front, with hands in front) takes a photograph with the top brass of the RVIPF, along with Governor Boyd McCleary (2nd from right), Premier Dr. D. Orlando Smith (3rd from left) and Deputy Premier Dr. Kedrick Pickering (right). Photo: VINO

Speaking to the media following the parade, Mr. Frazer, who proceeds on pre-retirement leave from April 1, 2012, added he would be deeply involved in community activities as he blends back into civilian life. “I have a passion for that (community work). Back in the school system I see there is a need there for a lot of mentoring particularly with the young guys. I think my presence there as a former commissioner talking to the students would make a big difference. It’s a passion that I have so I will be immersed in the community and assisting in any meaningful way.”

The top cop said his voluntary work would not be restricted to Tortola but also the Sister Islands.

He also noted that there would be no time for boredom as there are many other activities he intends to be involved in, including music and fishing.

Reflecting on his years in the force, Mr. Frazer there were many “good and bad times’ but his first five years in the RVIPF was probably the most exciting as he was always willing to engage himself in any force-related activity that often required him going beyond the call of duty. He also recalled working in different capacities in the RVIPF, including in the fingerprint section. “That was one of the main areas that drew me in the force. I had a passion for working in finger prints and so I was assigned to that section where I spent a number of years there.”

The commissioner concluded that his tenure in the RVIPF was a very challenging but also rewarding experience, “and I still regard the police force as a noble profession”, noting that he would do it all over again. He also said that during his interactions with youth he has observed that they do not seem to have that vested interest in joining the force but said it was important that they do for the peace and tranquillity of the Territory.

Asked what his parting advice to the RVIPF was, Mr. Frazer said, “There is a great expectation from the public for police officers, regardless of rank, to perform their duties impartially, be respectful and courteous. This is basically what I want to convey to the officers, to remind them of those things. And in performing our duties it is important for the police to be transparent and not giving sides. We have to do this, to serve the public without malice or ill will.

A very proud Mrs Frazer told Virgin Islands News Online she is thankful to God for protecting her husband over the years as a policeman. “I always believed in the greater good and the bigger picture and giving him the support. I am very proud of his accomplishments and am glad that his tenure has safely come to an end.”

Among those present at the farewell parade were Governer Boyd McCleary, Premier Dr. D. Orlando Smith and Deputy Premier Hon. Dr. Kedrick Pickering.