The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) is undergoing tremendous changes. As a Department that has over the years been regarded as always “in flux.” I know that the challenges often appear daunting and insurmountable. However, let me take this opportunity to say to each of you within the Civilian segment of the Department, and to all VIPD employees, that the success of the VIPD rests with your support.

Civilian staffs throughout the Department have displayed unwavering dedication and commitment to the goals and vision of this new VIPD, and for this I am immensely grateful. I firmly believe that change for the better will not occur without you. Additionally, success in accomplishing the ambitious strategic goals of the VIPD will not and can not be achieved without your continued support and tireless efforts.

In recalling my many years of experience as a career leader in law enforcement and the military, my extensive history, experience and success with the civilian community within a larger and more complex organization reinforced that the backbone of any military or Para-military organization is the civilians. From building the most powerful and intimidating fighter aircraft in the world to helping build the pillars of democracy in Iraq, civilians are doing the behind the scenes work of what is necessary to getting the job done and meeting the mission of the organization. While Para-military organizations are somewhat different from the VIPD, the similarities remain. The versatility, the adeptness, the insight and the ability to intuit adeptly are qualities that members of both organization share.

The rank and file of the sworn officer’s mission is to protect and serve. You have demonstrated that the VIPD civilians have the knowledge, skills and experience that clearly enhance performance. We have a lot to yet learn from you. Especially important is that the VIPD can only reach its “Best” and “Highest” potential with the continued dedication of the Civilian segment.

The stability and continuity that all VIPD civilians brings to the Department and the Territory is the real strength. The longevity that many of you have with the VIPD has allowed you to hone and perfect your skills and knowledge to afford the Department the quality and experience needed to attain the goals and objectives set for in our current mission.

I salute each of you and I salute your collective efforts in “making the difference” in the lives of our sworn personnel and the entire community. You have demonstrated that your flexibility and relentless drive allow you to undertake any challenge. No matter what comes at you, you are able to deal with it in the most effective and efficient manner possible.

I watch with much gratitude every time, everyday, every minute as you continue to find ways to overcome the obstacles that seek to impede the mission and vision. Yet, you each find ways to surmount the odds.

Many times law enforcement and the military look on our civilian workforce as “bureaucrats,” with all the negative connotations associated with that term. Nothing could be further from the truth. My experience with you clearly demonstrates that you do great work and accomplish much on behalf of the VIPD, despite the lack of resources.

As you do your best, I will continue to “fight the good fight” for you and for the people of the Territory. I can to assure you that I will be aggressive in providing the tools, technology and environment to be enable you to continue to be high performers. I admire and appreciate that you are able so much with so little.

With your dedication, hard work and support, step by step the VIPD is rapidly becoming a 21st Century law enforcement agency. The light at the end of the tunnel shines brightly. Have hope and we will reach the pinnacle together.

The sworn officers and I look at you with pride and gratitude. One day, with luck sworn officers may know the privilege of leading the civilian group. In the meantime keep on giving your best, and we will do our best to “protect and serve” as a “team.” God Bless.

Professionally,
ELTON LEWIS
Police Commissioner