City Rewind: Police Department Celebrates 50th Anniversary

April 1 marks a day for jokes, but the Gaithersburg Police Department has been all business for 50 years.

On April 1, 1963, a resolution was signed by then Mayor Merton F. Duvall establishing the Gaithersburg Police Department. In the 50 years since, the department has grown from three sworn officers and one civilian clerk to 57 sworn officers and 15 civilians, according to a city news release.

“Over the last half century, the department has seen many changes, including increased strength of officers, technological advancement and training, and redesigns of the police cruisers and uniforms; however, our mission has not changed," Chief Mark P. Sroka said in a statement. "We remain committed to our core values of Service, Integrity and Respect, continuing to enhance public safety and add to the quality of life for all Gaithersburg residents."

Chief David Marstiller was the first Chief of Police, although there are references to a “Town Marshall” in the minutes of Town Council Meetings prior to 1963, according to the city.

The town budget for fiscal year 1964 included “police protection” salaries for the solitary officer amounting to $4,000, and equipment purchases of $500. The proposed operating budget for the Police Department in fiscal year 2014 is approximately $9.2 million. 

To commemorate this occasion, the department created an anniversary badge (pictured above) to serve as a visual reminder of its commitment to public safety.