The Town of Rochester welcomed new Police Chief Michael A. Assad, Jr. in grand fashion Tuesday night with warm wishes, a large crowd and a march to bagpipes.
Boston Police Pipe and Drums Corps musician and retired Marion Police Sergeant Derryl Lawrence played the Marine Corps anthem on the bagpipes, as Assad and other members of the Rochester Police and Fire departments and local Boy Scout Troop 31 marched behind him into the Rochester Memorial School cafetorium and onto the stage.
Town residents and officials filling the seats in the audience watched as Cape Cod Miss Teen and Old Rochester Regional High School student Bree LaFavor sang “The Star Spangled Banner,” scout Zack Gagne led the attendees in the “Pledge of Allegiance” and scoutmaster Kevin Thompson read a prayer for police officers.
Steven Sylvia of Representative William Straus’ staff extended congratulations to Assad with a citation from the state house offering its own best wishes. Town Clerk Margie Barrows then stepped onto the stage and officially swore in Assad as the new Rochester Police Chief, and his wife Karen Assad ceremonially pinned his chief’s badge onto his chest.
Select Board member Adam Murphy praised Assad’s background, which features 23 years as a police officer in Mashpee, including in detective services and his work for the Barnstable Street Crime unit.
“Chief, we are confident that your leadership will guide our police force, fostering a strong partnership between law enforcement and the community,” Murphy said. “Your dedication to uphold the law while building trust and understanding is exactly what Rochester needs.
“Remember that the badge you now wear is not just a symbol of authority but a beacon of hope and justice. May your leadership be guided by wisdom, your actions by integrity, and your service by unwavering dedication to our community.”
Assad’s words after officially becoming the new chief were just as gracious.
“I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude, responsibility and determination to serve this community with integrity, compassion and dedication,” he said.
Assad thanked his family – his wife Karen, son and daughter – for their unwavering support throughout the highs and lows of his career. He then expressed gratitude to the community for their trust in him to lead the Rochester department.
“I fully understand the weight and responsibility that comes with this position,” he said. “And I pledge to uphold the values of justice, fairness and service to all members of our community. I remain committed to fostering a culture of transparency, accountability and community engagement within the department.”
Lastly, he turned to his fellow officers standing behind him on the stage.
“I want to express my gratitude to all of you for your dedication and hard work for this community,” he said, before concluding, “I am proud to serve as your chief of police and look forward to the journey ahead.”
By Michael J. DeCicco