On a sweltering June afternoon in 2026, hundreds of police officers from every corner of Belize assembled in crisp ceremonial formation at the Police Training Academy’s Parade Square, gathered not for a routine deployment or emergency response, but for a long-overdue moment of national recognition. The special ceremony was organized to celebrate the discipline, dedication, and extraordinary public service that have kept Belizean communities safe for years, shining a well-deserved spotlight on officers who have gone above and beyond the standard requirements of their roles.
Local journalist Paul Lopez of News Five attended the event and filed this on-the-ground report. Braving blistering mid-afternoon heat, the uniformed officers stood shoulder to shoulder at attention, their ranks filled with personnel who have spent decades committed to protecting Belize and its people. Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Commissioner of Police ACP Bart Jones opened by framing the event as anything but a typical workday for the force. “Today is not an ordinary day. It is one of recognition, gratitude and pride,” Jones said. “It is a day when we as an institution pause to recognize the men and women who have given years of faithful service, discipline and courageous service to the people of Belize and this cannot be overstated.”
Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado expanded on that sentiment, noting that the awards and medals being handed out were only a symbol of a far more important value: the quiet sacrifice and unwavering commitment that defines outstanding policing. “Today, we gather not merely to present medals and awards, but to celebrate something far greater, the enduring service, the spirit of sacrifice and the commitment that define the very best of policing,” Rosado explained. “In the life of a police officer there are countless moments that pass unnoticed by the public eye, moments when courage is chosen over comfort, moments when duty is placed over public convenience, moments when men and women answer a call, step into uncertainty and stand between order and disorder.”
The ceremony recognized a range of achievements across the force. Many officers were honored for decades of continuous long service, with some marking more than 20 years in uniform and a handful reaching the exceptional milestone of 30 years of public service. Other awards went to officers with spotless, discipline-free records, while special commendations were reserved for those who had demonstrated extraordinary bravery or effort beyond their assigned duties. In addition to service awards, more than a dozen sitting sergeants received promotions to the rank of inspector, with senior leadership officially pinning their new badges during the event.
Oscar Mira, Belize’s Minister of Home Affairs, addressed the gathered officers, emphasizing the critical role the police force plays in the country’s ongoing growth and stability. “Men and women from every district, town and city, have dedicated themselves to supporting our national development, protecting communities, safeguarding trade, supporting industries and promoting safe environments that allow our nation to prosper,” Mira said. “Throughout the development of Belize, the Belize Police Department has remained an essential pillar of governance and national stability. Today I simply say thank you for your service.” Mira added that alongside recognizing milestones of long service and good conduct, it was critical to honor officers who had distinguished themselves through exceptional performance that went beyond the call of duty.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the full contingent of officers marched off the parade square to enthusiastic applause from the hundreds of family members, friends, and fellow law enforcement colleagues who had gathered to watch the event. Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez. This report is a transcript of an evening television broadcast prepared by the outlet’s news team.