Central Saanich’s Police Chief received a special award this past week.
CSPS Chief Paul Hames was named as a recipient of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, a medal which honours exceptional leadership, merit and service in a police force.
The ceremony was held Friday, May 24 in Ottawa at Rideau Hall and the awards were presented to 61 police officers from all over Canada (11 from B.C.) by Governor General David Johnston.
Hames began his career in policing in 1974 when he joined the RCMP. He served in Alberta for many years and in 1997 he was promoted to the rank of Inspector and transferred to Ottawa.
There, Hames was tasked with researching, designing and implementing the first RCMP National Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre. Hames retired from the RCMP in 1999 and became Chief Constable of the CSPS.
“It was a humbling experience to be among so many exceptional people who have contributed to keeping Canada one of the safest places to live in the world,” said Hames of the award.
“During the ceremony I found myself thinking of all the men and women I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years. I feel extremely grateful to them as well as my family for the support they have given me over the years. Without them, this award would not have been possible.”
Hames’ involvement in the community extends beyond policing and includes serving as President of the Peninsula Co-op and serving on the Board of the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation.
Another Islander, Victoria Police Sargeant Mike Chicorelli, was also honoured with the prestigious award.