WPD says goodbye to a 36-year veteran of the force

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Colleagues in the Winthrop Police Department, friends, and family honored Detective Robert McFarland at a retirement party Thursday night at the Senior Center.

McFarland has retired after 36 years of service, 34 in the position of detective.

Police Chief Terence Delehanty served as master of ceremonies for the speaking program. “The town, the department, and I personally will be forever indebted to Bob for his service, dedication, and guidance that he has offered to us throughout his career.”

Councilor-at-Large Larry Powers and Councilor Jeanne Maggio presented a congratulatory citation to McFarland on behalf of Speaker of the House Robert A. DeLeo.

Town Manager James McKenna presented a citation on behalf of the town to McFarland, offering congratulations to him on a distinguished 36-year career in the Winthrop Police Department. “The town has come to really appreciate and watch you guide us through the various roles you have assumed in the police department and come to marvel at your ability to do so many things without complaint and with the most sincere dedication,” said McKenna.

Lieutenant Frank Scarpa recalled his first days on the job in July, 1977.

“I’m in my 34th year and every one of them was with you,” Scarpa told McFarland. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. I mean that because when I came on the job I needed someone to guide me and tell me what was what and the right way to do things and you were there. I’m proud of that, to say that I’ve worked with you for 34 years and we had a ball. I needed someone as a mentor, someone to look up to, somebody to guide me the right way so I could pass that on to others and I try to do that in memory of you.”

Police Sergeant Dennis Hickey, former Chief Michael McManus, Lt. Paul DeLeo, Det. Arthur Hickey, Police Union President Feruccio Romeo, Lt. Det. Brian Perrin, Council on Aging Director Nancy Williams, and employees of the East Boston District Court all thanked McFarland, some using humor to make their point about what a wonderful police officer and friend he was to all.

“I just want to thank you for all the help that you gave me – you did great work,” said McManus.

“I can’t say enough about Bob – he helped myself and my family out many, many times,” said DeLeo. “A lot of what I know – and a lot of people don’t think it’s much (a remark that drew laughter from the crowd), Bob is the one who taught me the most and it’s things you need to know. He was fantastic for this department and he’s fantastic to anybody that knows him. He’s one of my best friends.”

“I would like to thank him on behalf of the union -I’m going to miss him. I miss him already,” said Romero.

“You’ve been a great mentor to all of us,” Perrin told McFarland.

McFarland received a standing ovation as he walked to the podium, an appropriate tribute to one of Winthrop’s finest.

The many guests enjoyed a delicious buffet catered by the Meat Market following the conclusion of the program.