ORILLIA, ON, March 31, 2014 /CNW/ - During a tradition-filled change of command ceremony today, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) welcomed their newly-appointed Commissioner, J.V.N. (Vince) Hawkes as the OPP's 14th Commissioner.
Ontario's Lieutenant Governor David C. Onley, and the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services Madeleine Meilleur were among the principal dignitaries on hand to witness (Retired) Commissioner Chris Lewis pass the OPP-Tipstaff to Commissioner Hawkes. The passing of the Tipstaff is an important tradition in the OPP that has rich roots in policing and symbolizes the authority of the Office of the Commissioner.
The ceremony, held at Nottawasaga Inn near Alliston, began with both the past and present Commissioners being led into the venue by the "Commissioner's Own Pipes and Drums", the "OPP Ceremonial Unit", and an honour guard of 60 recruits currently attending their basic training at the OPP Academy at Headquarters in Orillia.
QUOTES
"It is an honour to participate in today's change of command ceremony for the Ontario Provincial Police. Incoming Commissioner Vince Hawkes brings with him over 30 years of policing experience and I am confident he will provide distinguished leadership for the OPP. In the name of Her Majesty the Queen, I am proud to witness the traditional passing of the Tipstaff and warmly congratulate the new Commissioner on his appointment."
- The Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
"I am so pleased to help welcome Commissioner Hawkes to his new role. He brings an impressive record of leadership to this position and I know he will continue to serve the people of Ontario proudly."
- The Hon. Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario
"I am truly honoured to have been selected as the 14th OPP Commissioner. The OPP has a long history of excellence and a proud reputation for providing a policing service to our communities that is second to none. I am proud to lead our 9,000-member police service into the next chapter by building on the rich legacy of our past Commissioners."
- OPP Commissioner J.V.N. (Vince) Hawkes
LEARN MORE
Commissioner Hawkes Biography
Ontario Government Media Release - Appointment
The OPP - What We Do (Annual Report)
SOURCE Ontario Provincial Police