Vanterpool in command — a woman of historic firsts
Superintendent Jacqueline Vanterpool. (BVI News photo)
Many persons inside and outside the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) might know her as ‘Superintendent’. But on June 9, Officer Jacqueline Vanterpool was acknowledged as something entirely more respectable — Commander.
Militantly robed in her ceremonial attire and her sword erected perfectly upright, Vanterpool on Saturday became the first female in the history of the British Virgin Islands to command the parade for The Queen’s birthday celebrations.
As she effortlessly commanded the parade of paramilitary personnel, the British Virgin Islander proved to be just as effective as her male counterparts typically known to take up the task.
Police Commissioner Michael Matthews was encouraged to describe her performance as ‘brilliant’.
“This is a sign, for me, of the way the Force is developing. We got to continue to grow and change the way we do things around here and the more we see local people stepping up and taking that level of responsibility, the better it is as far as I’m concerned,” the Commissioner said.
Superintendent Vanterpool in command as Governor Augustus Jaspert inspects the parade during the Queen’s celebrations on Saturday.
Superintendent Vanterpool is increasingly proving to be a woman of historic firsts; having also been the first female local to become a Superintendent in the RVIPF — a rank she has held for two years now.
Also recognising Vanterpool’s exceptional accomplishment, Governor Augustus Jaspert was compelled last Saturday to make a toast in honour of the top female cop during a reception at Government House, following The Queen’s parade.
She was one of three women Governor Jaspert paid tribute to that evening. The other two are Deputy Governor Rosalie Adams — who was awarded the Order of the British Empire — and the territory’s sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II.
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Congratulations Ms. Vanterpool. Continue to make your country proud.
Commissioner Michael Matthews said,“This is a sign, for me, of the way the Force is developing. We got to continue to grow and change the way we do things around here and the more we see local people up and taking that level of responsibility, the better it Indeed sir,growth and change must occur.
Question is , what kind of change?
Unfortunately, that bright, smart and highly intellectually gifted young lady and BVIslander will never attain the position of Commissioner or Governor despite being a full blooded able BVIslander. How does your vision of change fits that truth? Truth is, it doesn’t.
Indeed, if the change being referred to includes the abolition of those positions being closed to all BVIslanders, and thus set asides only for the British English son,then all would welcome that change which is long over due.
The current system is antiquated and totally unfair to that young lady and every BVIslander who wish to aspire to the highest positions of power in his or her homeland,only to recognize that neither ever will. If that is not wrong, then what is?
And we often wonder out loud why our local men chose not to join the RVPF. The above mentioned is clearly one of the reason
You may feel differently, but I certainly would not bet against her being Commissioner one day.
But I don’t think she is ever likely to be Governor unless she quits the police and joins the British diplomatic service.
The Boss. Next is Deputy Commish and Maybe even Top Cop.
Suppt. Vanterpool, a challenging job superbly well done and worthy of emulation. You are trail blazer; continue to blaze the trail. Undoubtedly, you have demonstrated that hard work, persistence, perseverance…….etc yield dividends.
Moreover, you have demonstrated the talent, knowledge, ability, problem solving ability, interpersonal relations, performance, leadership and management skills …….etc for assuming positions of increasing responsibility within the RVIPF and wider afield. Fran is surely “busting” a warm smile. Stay faithful, humble, focused, and grounded and continue believing. Continue to be blessed with God’s richest blessing!
“Moreover, you have demonstrated the talent, knowledge, ability, problem solving ability, interpersonal relations, performance, leadership and management skills …….etc for assuming positions of increasing responsibility within the RVIPF and wider afield.” Translation, you are ready for either DCoP or CoP. Supt., your unc got your back, singing your praises. Sweet, good ting!
No reason she cannot be Top Cop. The top cop in the UK is a woman.
Congratulations. superintendent J. Keep on striving for the top.
Her performance was great. congrats and more grease to your elbow.
Phenomenal!
L.T.
She looks awkward
Go girl they dont like to see locals move forward, keep on trusting in God, you will sure need it…