A special book celebrating 135 years of policing in Bermuda was launched yesterday by Commissioner Michael DeSilva.

The tome is the first to document the evolution of the service from its creation on October 1, 1879, and is crammed full of facts and interesting tales, as well as hundreds of photographs.

Images include the first police station in Hamilton, a visit by former US president John F Kennedy, and shots of dedicated officers down the years.

Noting that the Bermuda Police Service celebrated its 135th anniversary last year during October’s Police Week, Mr DeSilva said: “This book commemorates those celebrations by providing a photographic journal of our history, one in which I am extremely proud to play a small part.

“It goes without saying that a lot has changed over the years, including our name, structure, budgets, technology, equipment, and vehicles. Not to mention our membership: countless names and faces have come and gone, leaving behind fond memories and a rich history.

“Given the nature of our small community, everyone in Bermuda is likely to have a friend or relative captured somewhere among the photos.

“But while there have been significant changes, some things in policing are timeless. Like our commitment to serving the public, preserving the peace and helping to build safe and strong neighbourhoods. Community policing and partnerships, by whatever name, remains the cornerstone of how we do our work.

“Our ranks have increased from ten full-time men in 1879 to the men and women today that make up 432 police officers, 87 civilian support staff, 85 reserve police officers and 13 police cadets.”

Mr DeSilva, who was joined by former Commissioner Jean-Jacques Lemay for the launch, praised Chief Inspector Calvin Smith “for his vision to commemorate our 135th anniversary with this book”. Chief Insp Smith was assisted by retired colleagues Superintendent Andrew Birmingham, Chief Inspector Roger Sherratt, Sergeant Alex MacDonald and Sergeant Chris Wilcox.

“It is my privilege to be the Commissioner of the Bermuda Police Service, particularly at this point of our distinguished history,” Mr DeSilva added. “It is my distinct pleasure to present this special book as editor-in-chief.

“It certainly promises to deliver an interesting, informative, and nostalgic walk down memory lane for anyone who has ever known anyone in the police service.”

• The History of Policing in Bermuda is available at Brown and Company.