KUALA LUMPUR: Sixty years after they took up their badge, seven retired policemen returned to Pulapol, the place that launched their careers.
Representing Squad 1 1964 was former Johor contingent police Management Department director Assistant Commissioner (Rtd) S. Divakaran.
He said the former squad members were glad to meet each other once again after many years to reminisce.
The group included former Pulapol commandant Senior Assistant Commissioner (Rtd) Datuk Syed Md Mokhtar Syed Zubir Barakbah, former Bukit Aman Special Branch deputy director Senior Assistant Commissioner (Rtd) Kamarulzaman Mohd Nor, former Johor Special Branch chief Senior Assistant Commissioner (Rtd) Datuk Michael Khor Siang Pin, former Sentul police chief Assistant Commissioner (Rtd) C. Kerisnan, Munshir Abdullah and Datuk Abbas Osman.
"We are officers, all the time. We never forget," Divakaran said.
"It is satisfying to look back and compare then and now. All the more since today is June 1," he said, referring to the day they joined Pulapol.
The group was taken on buggies to several places in Pulapol that have existed since their time, including their former dorms.
They were also given a chance to test their shooting skills. They were given revolvers that they would have used when they were in service.
"When we joined the force, we started with a salary of RM265. When you were confirmed as an inspector after three years, your basic salary was RM368.
"These are the small things of great value that you remember today," Divakaran said.
He said the force had taught them true officership and true leadership.
"When we joined, we were all the same. When we went out, we were still the same because all of us became GD (general duty) officers.
"Then, we became investigating officers. After one year on the ground, we started going to the various branches.
"We have not seen each other for some 34 years. When you get a chance to meet again like this, it is such a happy occasion, made happier by our host who invited us with open arms and made us feel important."
He said there were 90 people in Squad 1 1964.
When asked what advice he would give to serving police officers, Divakaran stressed the need to follow the rules.
"No one is above the law and you must set the example.
"If the police break the law, the public will follow."
He said every police officer must have self-respect, follow the law and serve the public wholeheartedly.
Pulapol Commandant Muhammad Idzam Jaafar said he was excited when he received the request to visit from fellow brothers of the force and he sought to give them the best experience at their 'homecoming'.
He said this was the first time a reunion and a tour were conducted together.