THE RETIRED POLICE ASSOCIATION
Verse 1
I look around the room, at the many faces that I know
So many stories, myths and legends, recounted blow by blow
Eyes that look right through me, eyes that have seen it all
Retired Police who’ve hung up their guns, but still ready to answer the call.
Verse 2
Years and years of mateship, and the blue might doing right
In a flash its all over, you’re no longer in the fight
Looking for things to do at home, instead of at the station
But there’s a handshake and a knowing look at the Retired Police Association.
Verse 3
They gather in their numbers and the ranks no longer matter
Warriors of justice, sharing memories, beer and chatter
The lines on their faces trace the journeys of their noble path
Going hard into the eye of the storm and dealing with the aftermath.
Verse 4
A lifetime of living, packed into every year
On any given day, laughter, tears and fear
Facing violence and horror and human abomination
Rarely any gratitude, but public condemnation.
Verse 5
But through it all, you found the good, and followed your strong heart
Tolerated uncouth partners, and that awful nightshift fart
The “Ways and Means Act” and obscure legislation
There’s plenty of tall stories at the Retired Police Association.
Verse 6
You remember an old mate, as you silently shed a tear
He’s not here today, to share a laugh and a beer
He never hesitated, but he never made it home
Lying and dying in his blood, frightened and alone
Verse 7
You remember marching out on that sacred acre, like it was yesterday
So proud in front of your family, that you’d chosen the right way
Drunken nights and terrible fights and hurdles in the job
But you never faltered against those who would kill, hurt and rob.
Verse 8
Birthdays and Christmases disappearing like morning mist
Retirement parties, empty homes and grandchildren kissed
You don’t miss the job, but you miss it all the same
You see a grub from yesteryear, and you still remember the bastard’s name.
Verse 9
You talk of how the job has changed and the younger generation
You wonder what it’ll be like when they join the Retired Police Association
Along with war stories, you discuss all your medications
And the Viagra you take for your marital relations!
Verse 10
You’ve lived a life of honour, so stand tall and proud
Let the good times roll, still get messy and loud
Support our young officers, because each one is one of you
The only thing keeping society safe is our band of blue.
Verse 11
I look around the room and my heart swells with pride
For what you did and didn’t do, on your righteous ride
I salute every one of you, the retirement you deserved
Thank-you one and all, with honour you served.
By Senior Sergeant Tim Beard.
