By Jim McGaw
PORTSMOUTH — In bidding Deputy Police Chief Maryanne D. Perry a fond farewell Monday night, Police Chief Thomas Lee described his second in command as an officer of many firsts in the department.
“She was the first female sergeant, the first female lieutenant, and the first female administrative lieutenant,” Chief Lee told members of the Town Council, who honored Major Perry on the occasion of her retirement from the force after more than 20 years of service.
Of course, she was also the first woman to become deputy police chief in Portsmouth.
“I wish she would stay and become the first female chief, but she’s decided to retire,” Chief Lee said.
Council President Kevin Aguiar read a proclamation of congratulations to Deputy Chief Perry as some of her fellow officers stood at attention.
Major Perry, whose retirement is effective April 26, first joined the department on Oct. 20, 1998. She was a “homegrown local girl” who first started working for the department as an intern, Chief Lee said.
“Maryanne was the second female officer hired by the Portsmouth Police Department and for many years was the only female member of the (department), where she served with distinction … in a male-dominated environment,” he said.
The chief added, “She is the most compassionate police officer I’ve ever met.”
Deputy Chief Perry, who is not known for making speeches, declined to give one Monday as well. She told council members and her fellow officers, however, that she appreciated their kind words.