The Australian Federal Police (AFP) held a funeral today to farewell its longest serving member, Detective Sergeant Peter Theodore, who died on 7 December 2020 after 45 years of service to Australia.
The funeral was held at Saint Christopher's Cathedral in Manuka, and was attended by AFP Acting Commissioner Ian McCartney APM and Chief Police Officer for the ACT, Deputy Commissioner Neil Gaughan APM. Members of the AFP lined Canberra Avenue in an Honour Guard as Detective Sergeant Theodore was farewelled by his colleagues.
Detective Sergeant Theodore joined the Commonwealth Police in November 1975 and in 1979 commenced as a founding member of the AFP.
During his AFP career, Detective Sergeant Theodore held a diverse range of roles, both in regional commands and internationally. He worked extensively in various National Investigations areas, Surveillance and Close Personal Protection. He deployed on four missions to East Timor, two to Cyprus and one to the Solomon Islands. More recently, Detective Sergeant Theodore was working as Watch Floor Sergeant in the National Operations State Service Centre.
Just prior to his passing, Detective Sergeant Theodore was awarded the 45 Year Clasp to the National Medal. This award was specifically presented by The Hon. Peter Dutton MP, Minister for Home Affairs. The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised organisations who risk their lives or safety to protect the community in enforcement of the law.
Acting Commissioner Ian McCartney APM acknowledged Detective Sergeant Theodore's lifetime of service to the AFP and community.
"On behalf of the AFP family, I extend our sincere condolences to Detective Sergeant Theodore's family, friends and all of the AFP members who had the privilege of knowing him and working with him," Acting Commissioner McCartney said
"There has been profound and immeasurable good come from Peter's 45 years of service to our community. He will be sorely missed by the AFP."
