Re: “Victoria’s police chief is a veteran of a desk,” letter, Sept. 9.

This letter is both offensive and plainly mean-spirited. Many police officers have long careers, myself 38 years.

Many of us, if I may use the cliché, work our way up the ranks as we serve our communities and earn the respect of the public and fellow officers.

Some officers make the extra effort to enhance their qualifications leading to serving in necessary complex roles within their department in both operations and administration, while at the same time providing leadership and ­mentorship.

Del Manak exemplified these qualities.

Thirty-plus years in policing is a long and often bumpy road but most officers look back with satisfaction and pride.

John Charlton

Insp. (retired) Saanich PD

Langford

I want to challenge all the complaining stories about parking in Victoria, which are almost always anecdotal.

So, let me tell you my anecdotal parking........

© Times Colonist