Editor:
Last month, I had the opportunity to chaperone 34 Grade 11 and 12 students from Elgin Park Secondary.
We spent 10 busy but fantastic days touring France, Monaco and Italy.
I am a member of the RCMP who proudly serves in the city of Surrey as a watch commander. With 30 years of policing under my belt, I have had many diverse encounters and experiences with youth.
Occasionally, it becomes difficult to avoid negativity and cynicism when my job requires me to deal with some negative issues on a daily basis.
However, I know the reality is that we live in a wonderful country and community with people who care and want the best for each other.
My trip with the students from Elgin Park Secondary solidified these beliefs. I feel confident that we are in great hands with today’s youth.
The students were amazing ambassadors for this beautiful country of ours! They were respectful, mature, appreciative and fun to be around. I have awesome memories with them that I will cherish forever.
I take my hat off to these kids, knowing they will all become respected, contributing members of society. I also salute the parents who did an excellent job in raising their kids, our future. Thank you from all of us.
I would like to also acknowledge the teacher supervisors: Marti Player, Trish Wagner, Susan Janzen and Mini Gill. In my experience as a student, I never had the opportunity to work and learn with such a committed group of teachers.
When Marti, the tour leader and international languages department head of at Elgin Park, invited me to join their team, I had no idea what to expect nor did I know any of the students.
The supervisory team was not only solid; it was fun to be a part of. The teachers made my role easier by always being positive, organized and flexible.
However, what impressed me the most was how much they really liked their students and wanted them to have an unforgettable experience.
Elgin Park students are fortunate to be surrounded by such a caring group of educators.
I would finally like to add that during my voyage with 34 teenagers, I think I may have gained the interest of a few who may want to pursue a career in policing. For this I am excited, as I would be proud to have any of them on my team of police officers.
Insp. R.W. (Randall) Marquardt, Officer in charge, ‘C’ Watch, Surrey RCMP