Farewell to Chief Alan Beach in Port Royal
A New Chapter Begins
Port Royal has recently bid adieu to its long-time Police Chief, Alan Beach, who has announced his retirement after an impressive 37-year-long journey in law enforcement. This emotional send-off took place on Wednesday, where colleagues and town officials gathered to honor Beach’s dedication as he ends his commendable career as chief – a position he has held for the last 12 years.
A Legacy of Growth and Professionalism
Beach joined what was then known as the Port Royal Department of Public Safety at the age of 21 back in 1987. Over the years, he played a dual role as both a police officer and firefighter until the fire services merged with Beaufort. His tenure has been marked by significant growth, with the department expanding from 10 officers to 30 under his leadership. Col. Deputy Chief Ron Wekenmann praised Beach for his commitment towards improving the department’s professionalism and effectiveness.
Emotional Goodbyes and Humor
The farewell ceremony was filled with heartfelt tributes and amusing tales. Beach recalled his disbelief when he realized he had been part of the department for not just five but ten years. “I never thought I was going to make five years — and the next thing it was 10,” he reflected. Colleagues shared light-hearted anecdotes, highlighting the camaraderie and laughter that defined Beach’s leadership. For instance, Capt. John Griffith fondly remembered the awkward silence that followed his answer about his qualifications at the pistol range. “Finally, Griffith asked Beach, ‘if he was ever going to give him some bullets,’” eliciting laughter from the audience.
Meet the Candidates for Chief
As Chief Beach prepares to hand over the reins, the town officials have already started the process for finding his replacement. The names of three finalists hoping to fill Beach’s significant shoes have been released, one of whom is an in-house candidate, while the other two hail from out of state. The community will have a chance to interact with these candidates during a special meet and greet session scheduled for Wednesday, September 11, at 6 p.m., just before the Town Council meeting. This is a wonderful opportunity for residents to share their thoughts and concerns regarding the future of the police department.
Looking Ahead
Beach, at 58, is excited about his new chapter, planning to spend more time fishing, golfing, and possibly taking on a part-time job. He also expressed his desire to continue his daily walks around Port Royal with friends from the force, Massey and Wekenmann, emphasizing that maintaining connections with the community he served is important to him.
A Fond Farewell
The farewell ceremony was not just a goodbye; it was a celebration of the impact Chief Beach had on the department, the officers he mentored, and the community he cherished. As the community begins to adjust to the changes ahead, Mayor Kevin Phillips states that the final decision on the new chief will ultimately rest with Town Manager Van Willis, ensuring that the right person is chosen to lead the department into the future.
In Conclusion
As Port Royal turns the page and looks towards new leadership, the legacy of Chief Alan Beach will undoubtedly continue to inspire. His unwavering dedication and the bonds he fostered while on duty will remain a cherished part of Port Royal’s history.
