POPULAR POLICE OFFICER.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19047, 18 December 1923, Page 6

POPULAR POLICE OFFICER.

SUPERINTENDENT MARSACK ENTERTAINED. A CONVIVIAL EVENING. Superintendent R. Marsack, who has retired on superannuation after 36 years’ service, was tendered a farewell smoke concert in Kroon’s Social Hall last evening. As an evidence of the esteem in which Superintendent Marsack is held by his men, it may be mentioned that officials and constables from all parts of Otago were present. Sub-inspector Eccles, who presided over an attendance of about 80. stated that they had gathered to bid farewell to their superintendent and to welcome his successor. Senior-superintendent S. P. Norwood. Such a large gathering was an indication of the esteem in which Superintendent Marsack was held. During the short time he had been in Dunedin he had endeared himself to them all by his courtesy and splendid administration. Superintendent Marsack joined the force in 1889, and was sworn in at Christchurch, and after a varied career comprising numerous changes, he eventually came to Dunedin in October, 1922. Ha had risen from the bottom to the top of the ladder, and had set a great example to all those following on. Referring to the police force in Dunedin, the speaker stated that of all the four centres in the dominion Dunedin stood alone in its freedom from crime. There was not a city in the Southern Hemisphere which

was more law-abiding, and as far as the police force was concerned they could not be on better terms with the public. He had never known this state of affairs to be more in evidence than during Superintendent Marsack’s 14 months’ administration. He had contributed bis quota and rarely, if ever, had there been complaints against the police. They, were all sorry to lose Superintendent Marsack, but after 36 years’ service he certainly deserved a well-earned rest- and on behalf of the police force of Otago and Southland ho wished Superintendent Marsack, -Mrs Marsack. and family health, happiness, and prosperity. Sub-inspector Eccles then presented Superintendent Marsack with a set of carvers, two dozen stainless knives, a gold-mounted walking stick, silver serviette rings, one dozen silver soup spoons, table forks, dessert spoons, afternoon tea spoons, and a set of silver fish knives, on behalf of the Dunedin Police Force.

Inspector J. MTvamara, on behalf of the Invercargill police, presented Superintendent Marsack with a silver-mounted tray, u set of fish forks and knives, and a goldmounted tobacco pouch. Inspector M'Narnara stated that every member of the force in the south wished Superintendent Marsack the best of luck, and with their gift went their hearts. Senior-sergeant Mathieson wished the superintendent every success, and hoped he would live long to enjoy that period of rest which he had worked so hard for. Sergeant Hewitt (Invercargill) stated that ho had had dealings with Superintendent Marsack and never had he had a better man over him. He had always been ready to assist a man from the bottom to the top, and his words of advice to young men always proved invaluable. He conveyed a message from the men of Southland wishing him every happiness for the future, Ex-Constable West, Sergeant Lennon (Lawrence), and Sergeant M’Glone also spoke.

Superintendent Marsack, in reply, said he did not know how to express thanks for the beautiful presents, and the kindly words received on all hands. ( When he first arrived in Dunedin about 14 months ago he felt hf had a big row to hoe. He had known Superintendent M‘Grath for his tact and discretion, and he knew he could not go wrong if ho emulated him. the speaker said he had not expected to bo so honoured, and he only wished a third of the things which had been said were deserved. Ho had been told Dunedin was a fine place, and he had found that to be so. It was all very well to say that the Dunedin police force reflected great credit

on him —that might be so, but the way the men had backed him up and carried out their duties had gone a long way to that end. In connection with the floods, said the speaker, he had received letters of congratulation regarding the efficiency with which everything was controlled. He did not deserve rhat; it was the men. In conclusion, Superintendent Marsack said he hoped Inspector M'Namara would carry his words cf thanks to those in Southland, and to all others he extended his deepest appreciation. Sub-inspector Ecclea then introduced Senior-superintendent Norwood, whom he stated had been in the force for W years, and had crowded a groat deal of police history into his life. He dealt at length with the superintendent’s career, and was

sure that daring his stay in Dunedin every man would get a square deal. On behalf of the Otago district he promised him their loyal support, and he was sure he would have a happy time among them. Inspector M'Namara, on' behalf cf tho Invercargill police, welcomed the new superintendent. Senior-superintendent Norwood thanked them all, and said it was a pleasure to be present at such a function. He had worked with Superintendent Marsack, and they had always got on amicably together. He knew maiiv of the men present, and lie was very glad to got back among them. During his 16 months with thorn ho hoped he would get on well. He had always given a square deal, and ho would live up to it. Several toasts were honoured, and during the evening selections and songs were

broadcasted from a wireless set. A violin solo by Mr W. Legall was a feature of the evening, and was thoroughly enjoyed. The function terminated with the singing of the National Anthem.