VBPD to honor first black officers

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - Virginia Beach Police will be holding a ceremony to honor the first black law enforcement officers on Monday.

Jimmy Barnes with the Virginia Beach Police Department said the event will take place at 6 p.m. at the department’s Second Precinct, located at 820 Virginia Beach Blvd. The public is invited to attend.

The ceremony will honor the 23 Black Auxiliary Police Officers who served the Seatack community prior to 1969. In total, 31 officers will be honored.

“These men were responsible for moving our agency away from the discriminatory practices that were commonplace during the 50s and 60s and towards a more inclusive and integrated workforce,” Chief James A. Cervera said. “From a national perspective, we celebrate the accomplishments of noted citizens like Jackie Robinson (baseball), Earl Lloyd (basketball), Guion S. Bluford, Jr. (Astronaut), or the Tuskegee Airmen.  From a local perspective, these men share a place in history.  We intend to celebrate their place in history during this ceremony.”

For more information and to learn who will be honored, visit VBPD’ Facebook page here .