RCIPS pays tribute to Mark Luke
Deputy Governor Franz Manderson and Police Commissioner Derek Byrne unveil Mark Luke’s portrait
(CNS Local Life): More than 60 people gathered at the Joint Marine Base in Newlands to celebrate the life and service of SPC Mark Luke, a former member of the unit and beloved colleague who passed away after a long battle with cancer in August.
The RCIPS invited family members, friends and officers to the ceremony, held Wednesday, 14 November, to participate in the remembrance of SPC Luke, share stories and memories, and also to witness the unveiling of a vessel being renamed in his honour.
A/Supt Brad Ebanks, Head of Specialist Operations, including the Joint Marine Unit, led an intimate ceremony that featured remarks about SPC Luke from current and past officers that worked with him, stated an RCIPS press release.
Deputy Police Commissioner of Kurt Walton gave an overview of SPC Luke’s more than 25 years of service, and facilitated the participation of former PC Jeremy Dufour from Canada by phone. He also read a tribute from former PC Raul Espinosa. They both shared their memories of Mark while working in the JMU, the RCIPS said in the press release.
The renamed marine vessel
The programme also included a prayer delivered by CI Everton Spence and a tribute sung by Dewy Ebanks, who had been Luke’s supervisor in the JMU and long-time friend. Other officers past and present shared other memories that recalled Luke’s strong work ethic and bravery, which earned him recognition during his career as a strong rescue swimmer, the release stated.
At the end of the ceremony, the interceptor Marine Vessel M/V Tornado was dedicated in Luke’s memory as the M/V M Luke, and was unveiled by Deputy Governor Franz Manderson and Commissioner of Police Derek Byrne. The Tornado was known to have been Luke’s favourite vessel when he worked in the JMU.
The Last Post was played on the trumpet by RCIPS Marching Band member David Forbes at the conclusion of the ceremony. A photograph of Luke during his time with the unit was also unveiled and will be displayed in the JMU offices.
Category: Civil Service, Police
