Customs celebrate retiree’s decades of service
(L-R) Kenneth Jefferson, Marlon Bodden, Langlie Powery, Franz Manderson and Marco Archer at Powery’s retirement ceremony
(CNS Local Life): The Cayman Islands Customs Department celebrated Langlie Powery and his 37 years of service at his retirement ceremony on Friday, 16 September 2016. The retired customs training manager received high praise from officials, colleagues and friends for his commitment and dedication to government service. Powery began his career with the Cayman Islands Government on 1 April 1979 as a customs officer recruit.
He worked his way through the ranks, from senior customs officer to assistant collector of customs, until he was promoted to his final position in 1999.
Speakers and attendees at the ceremony included Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, Minister for Finance Marco Archer, Financial Secretary and Chief Officer Kenneth Jefferson, Senior Assistant Financial Secretary Anne Owens, Deputy Collector of Customs Marlon Bodden, Acting Deputy Collector of Customs Jeff Jackson and president of the Cayman Islands Civil Service Association James Walter.
In a government press release, Manderson expressed his gratitude to Powery for his significant contributions to the department and its customers.
“I sincerely thank you on behalf of the civil service for all of the hard work you have done,” he said. “You have given back so much to this community. We wish you a happy retirement and God’s blessing.”
Archer applauded Powery for his commitment to his job, and his determination to provide the highest professional service.
“You spent 37 years dealing with law and order, and law enforcement to ensure our people and community were kept safe,” he said. “Words cannot express enough just how much you have contributed to this department and the legacy you leave behind.”
Collector of Customs Charles Clifford, who could not attend, provided the following statement: “I am well aware of the significant contributions which you have made to our country and of your willingness to go the extra mile through your many years of service with and support to the Cayman Islands Civil Service Association,” he said.
“We must record our collective and sincere gratitude for your dedicated service as we wish you well in your retirement.”
In response to all the comments, Powery said, “It has been a joy and a pleasure working in the Customs Department. This is where I was raised. I have enjoyed my time here and I thank all of you for your kind words.”
He said he is stepping down to work fulltime on a retirement project in West Bay to build a fitness centre next to the Ed Bush Stadium. He officially retired on 31 July 2016.
Several of Powery’s colleagues applauded him for the positive impact he made on their careers as a role model, and thanked him for his advice and guidance throughout the years.
During the celebration, Powery received a plaque and a watch as a token of appreciation from his fellow workers.
Category: Civil Service
