OPP Dedication of Marine Vessel "Archie Ferguson II"

OPP Honours Commissioner Emeritus

ORILLIA, ON, July 26 /CNW/ - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) invites the public to take part in a special dedication ceremony of one of its marine patrol vessels to honour Commissioner Emeritus Archie Ferguson.

Archie Ferguson was the 9th Commissioner of the OPP. He served as Commissioner from 1983 to 1988. He received the honour of Emeritus distinction in 2009 in recognition of his continued support of, and achievement in, public safety and policing.

The marine patrol vessel to be dedicated "Archie Ferguson II" is a 32 foot (676 cm) launch currently patrolling the St. Clair River and southern shore of Lake Huron. This vessel is one of three marine units patrolling the waters in the Lambton Detachment area and is amongst the 126 vessels the OPP maintains in its fleet to patrol over 94,610 square kilometres of navigable lakes and waterways in Ontario.

The OPP's Lambton Marine Unit frequently works with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ministry of Natural Resources, Canada Border Services Agency, United States Coast Guard, and neighbouring Canadian and American police services. The Unit also conducts and assists partner agencies with Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and Security duties.

"This is a great honour and I am very pleased that my name will continue to be associated with Lake Huron," said Commissioner Emeritus Ferguson.

OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino, who will be performing his last official ceremony as Commissioner, will be joined by Commissioner Emeritus Ferguson as they formally dedicate this vessel into service for the people of Lambton County.

"People are welcome to attend and be part of this special day," said Fantino. "It is a great opportunity for us to share our proud history and to recognize a former Commissioner who continues to dedicate his time and energy to public service."

Rain or shine, the event promises to provide excellent photo opportunities!

Learn more at http://www.opp.ca/media/AF2/.

    
                         Date:        Friday July 30th, 2010

                         Time:        3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

                         Location:    Bridgeview Marina
                                      Village of Point Edward, ON

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For further information: OPP Constable Chrystal Jones, Community Service Officer, Phone: [phone]