On Friday, 31 August, former RCIPS constable (PC 145) Mr. Melvin Augustine passed away at age 71, following a multi-year battle with illness.
Mr. Augustine joined the RCIPS on 1 September, 1976, after having served as a police officer in Belize. His service in the RCIPS lasted for over 30 years, until he left the service in February, 2007. Not only was he a dedicated police constable, but, as a lifelong musician, he was also instrumental in the forming of the RCIPS Police Band, and served as band leader. Mr. Augustine even contributed another of his talents to the RCIPS, working as a tailor for the service throughout his tenure.
Over the course of his career he was stationed at Government House, worked in the Community Relations Department (the precursor to the current Community Policing Department), and the Process Department. His contributions to the service were officially recognized in 1994 when he received an honours medal from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her visit to the Cayman Islands, and again in 2010 when he received a long service award.
During his time with the RCIPS, Mr. Augustine was a constant presence at the old police barracks in George Town, where he could always be found either sewing, helping to teach someone music, or rehearsing with the police band.
“He was someone who was always willing to help and never had anything ill to say about anyone. He was always jovial too, there was never a dull moment with him,” said RCIPS Inspector Gerald Joseph, who was a close friend of Mr. Augustine. “He was multitalented, and one of the very few people I can think of who could play almost any instrument. He was always learning something new, in fact, he told me the next instrument he wanted to learn was the bagpipe!”
In addition to his service with the RCIPS, Mr. Augustine had a great influence on music in the Cayman Islands. He played for years with his band, the Settlers, and was a music teacher as well.
“Cayman has lost a great individual,” added Inspector Joseph. “Melvin can never be replaced.”
The RCIPS extends its sincerest condolences to Mr. Augustine’s wife, children, grandchildren, and loved ones.
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