FINAL SALUTE: Sergeant Mark Lyon retires after 42 years

A march-out parade signalled the end of 42 years’ service to the NSW Police Force by Narrabri-based Highway Patrol Officer Sergeant Mark Lyon.

Sgt Lyon’s extensive police service was celebrated with an afternoon tea at Narrabri Police Station followed by a guard-of-honour.

Local police officers were joined by other guests and visiting police officials for the unique occasion.

At the end of the proceedings, Sgt Lyon marched out from the entry of Narrabri Police Station to a guard-of-honour formed by his fellow officers while bagpipes were played.

Maitland Street was briefly closed, with highway patrol cars lining the street in front of the station.

Representatives of community organisations and services were also represented in the gathering.

Sgt Lyon saluted Inspector Kelly Wixx (Highway Patrol Manager – Peel Sector) and Superintendent Paul Glinn (Commander – North West Traffic and Highway Patrol) before being driven away from the station.

Sgt Lyon’s service started on July 26, 1982 and he continued until October 14, 1982 as a trainee. From October 15, 1982 to October 14, 1983 he was a Probationary Constable, a Constable from October 15, 1983 to October 14, 1987, Constable 1/C from October 15, 1987 to October 14, 1991, Senior Constable from October 15, 1991 to February 18, 2008 and then a Sergeant from February 19, 2008 until his retirement earlier this month.

He served in Maroubra, 1982-1984, Mascot 1984, Maroubra, 1984-1985, Eastern suburbs Sydney, 1985-1987, Maroubra Highway Patrol, 1987-88, Tamworth and Narrabri Highway Patrol, 1988, Moree and Boggabilla, 1995-1998 and then Narrabri Highway Patrol, 1998-2024.

During the march-out ceremony, a message from NSW Police was broadcast to the gathering.

“The NSW Police Force would like to extend its gratitude to Sgt Lyon for his 42 years of service to the community of NSW,” the message said.

“Sgt Mark Lyon has enjoyed a distinguished career undertaking many and varied roles.

“The majority of his career spent in highway patrol in the Oxley and New England Police Districts. We thank you for your dedication and service.

“Enjoy your well-earned retirement.”