Let’s go back to the Feb. 15, 1962 pages of the Optimist, which ran story on a meeting of the Delta Police Commission that week where Const. Bill Booker received a citation for bravery.
The Delta Police officer earlier that month rescued six-year-old Bridget Van Tunen, who almost drowned after falling into the waters of Sunbury Slough.
The officer plunged into the water and took the girl back to shore where he gave mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Tunen, a North Delta resident who had five siblings, was on hand at the meeting with her parents, as well as residents from all parts of Delta who wanted to show their gratitude.
Presenting Booker with the citation, Delta Reeve Clarence Taylor said that the bravery and knowledge of the constable reflected well on the whole force. He said that while he attended a conference in Ontario the previous year, the Delta Police Force had been spoken of as an outstanding municipal force.
Const. George Angus, president of the Delta Police Association at the time, and years later becoming Chief Constable, presented Booker with a cheque.
