NEW CASTLE, Del. -- On Friday, June 6, 2014, Major Robert Becker, the Deputy Chief of the Operations Branch with the New Castle County Police Department, concluded 23 years of distinguished service. A walkout ceremony was held today at the Corporal Paul J. Sweeney Public Safety Building where members of Public Safety gave well wishes and congratulations.

Major Becker joined the New Castle County Police Department on October 9, 1990. During his tenure, Major Becker has served in a number of units such as Patrol, the Criminal Investigations Unit, the Professional Development Unit and as the Patrol Executive Officer. He has served as the commander of the Special Operations Section, Drug Control Squad and the Professional Development Unit.

He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2005 and then to the rank of Lieutenant one year later. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2009 where he served as the commander of the Special Operations Section. He was then promoted to the rank of Major in 2010 and appointed as the Deputy Chief of the Administrative Branch. In 2012, he was appointed as the Deputy Chief of the Operations Branch, which he commanded until his retirement.

He is the recipient of the Commendation of Heroism for his efforts in saving the life of a 9-year-old child from a house fire in 1991. He has also received a Commendation of Merit for the apprehension of a dangerous suspect that committed two armed robberies in January 1992. Later that same year, Major Becker received another Commendation of Merit for maintaining his composure and professionalism as he handled the many tasks required for securing the scene of a heinous murder in Hockessin. He is also the recipient of numerous complimentary letters from citizens for his professionalism and attention to detail.

Major Becker has been called a great leader, intelligent yet humble. His leadership and experience will be missed by all members of Public Safety, both sworn and civilian, as well as the citizens of New Castle County.