The WA Police Legacy Motorcycle Ride to be held on 28-29 November is in memory of First Class Constable Bill Pense and Detective Senior Constable Charles “Charlie” Scott.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the tragic death of Det. S/C Scott 6452.
On 13 March 1996, he was taking part in a joint operation with Customs and the Australian Federal Police when their plane crashed at Manypeaks near Albany and killed all four on board.
It has been almost five decades since 1/C Const. Pense 3507 was killed, and his selflessness, dedication and unwavering commitment to protecting others continue to exemplify the values that define policing.
On 12 October 1979, 1/C Const. Pense and Mt Barker Police Station Officer in Charge Sergeant James Keelan attended a farming property to execute a court warrant.
As Sgt Keelan approached the residence, the officers came under gunfire.
Despite being shot multiple times, Const. Pense advanced towards the offender and disarmed him in an attempt to protect Sgt Keelan, who had also been wounded.
Tragically, 1/C Const. Pense, who joined the WA Police Force in 1958, was fatally wounded. He was posthumously awarded the George Medal for Bravery in recognition of his extraordinary courage.
This memorial ride is intended to ensure that officers such as Bill and Charlie are never forgotten.
WA Police Legacy Motorcycle Rides enable serving and retired members, families, friends and supporters to come together as one Blue Family – strengthening their connection and recognising the importance of standing beside one another during times of need.
Participants will ride from the WA Police Academy Chapel and Memorial Wall to Albany on Saturday 28 November, before returning on Sunday 29 November. Upon arrival in Albany, a short memorial service will be conducted to honour the service and sacrifice of Det. S/C Scott and 1/C Const. Pense to reflect on their enduring legacy.
Visit the WA Police Legacy events page
Photos:
Top of page: Sergeant James Keelan (sitting in a vehicle).
Directly above: First Class Constable Bill Pense.
