Retired police officers honoured for their service in the south west

RETIRED police officers were thanked for their service and given medals in honour of their work during their years in the force at a special function hosted by Bankstown Police Area Command last Thursday.

Superintendent Michael O'Toole and his team with the retired officers. Picture: Angelo Velardo

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RETIRED police officers were thanked for their service and given medals in honour of their work during their years in the force at a special function hosted by Bankstown Police Area Command last Thursday.

More than 15 retired officers from Bankstown, Cumberland, Fairfield, Liverpool — some of them forced to quit due to accidents on the job — were honoured to be recognised by NSW Police Force.

Superintendent Michael O’Toole, Commander of the Bankstown Police Station, praised the former officers for their many years in the force, attributing the current high standards to their work.

Superintendent Michael ÕToole presents a medal to retired highway patrol officer Terry Delatorre. Picture: Angelo Velardo

“We thank you for your contributions and everyone in this room has contributed to making this one of the best police forces in the world,” Supt O’Toole said.

“We are the envy of every police force and we thank you also for the legacy which you have left.

“You have left the force in a very good place.”

Superintendent Michael O'Toole thanking the retired officers for their service. Picture: Angelo Velardo

These medals were presented to the retired officers by Superintendent Michael O'Toole. Picture: Angelo Velardo

For former highway patrolmen, Terry Delatorre and Robert Conte, who both retired after being involved in motor accidents, the day was something special.

“This is something good as we can catch up with people we hardly see now,” said Mr Conte, who retired in 2001.

“When you work in the force we look after each other’s backs so it’s great to come to these events and see old faces again.”

Terry Delatorre and Robert Conte, former Highway Patrol officers, catch up at the function. Picture: Lawrence Machado

Mr Delatorre was a police officer for seven years before a terrible car accident saw him lose nine months of his memory and leave him unable to work for the force again.

He now lives with his mother, has a great sense of humour despite his disabilities and was one of the most cheerful guests.

“This is a really great idea to see old faces again,” Mr Delatorre said.

“I was a senior constable with the highway patrol when I had the accident.”