Deputy’s wife Cathy VandeGraaf (L), Cobourg Deputy Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf and Governor General David Johnston. (R) (Photo: Submitted)
A former Belleville Deputy Police Chief has been recognized for his exceptional service and commitment to Canada by Governor General David Johnston.
At an investiture ceremony held Friday at Rideau Hall, Cobourg’s Deputy Chief of Police, Paul VandeGraaf received the Order of Merit of the Police Forces from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.
He was made a Member of the Order.
“At the Police Service we are very proud of Deputy Chief VandeGraaf for this recognition bestowed upon him,” said Chief Kai Liu. For Paul’s 24 year track record as a community builder with the Belleville Police Service and his continued efforts and commitment to keeping Cobourg a safe community, this recognition is well earned and deserved.”
Deputy Chief Paul VandeGraaf stated “I am honoured to be recognized with this award. Throughout my career I have recognized that the community-police partnership is instrumental in delivering effective police services. To be recognized by my peers for my contribution to policing and community development is quite humbling. I look forward to continuing to work with the Town of Cobourg in making our community another great safe community in Ontario and Canada.”
The Order of Merit of the Police Forces was created in 2000, and honours a career of exceptional service or distinctive merit displayed by the men and women of Canadian police forces, and recognizes their commitment to this country. The primary focus is on exceptional merit, contributions to policing and community development.
