The town has honored two municipal police officers who were hired by the town on the same day in 1993, for having passed a milestone: 25 years of public service in law enforcement.

In ceremonies at the police station on September 14, First Selectman Dan Rosenthal honored Captain Christopher Vanghele, 48, and Sergeant Scott Ruszczyk, 50, for having passed the 25-year milestone of police service. Both men were hired on June 11, 1993, after which they attended the state’s police academy for municipal law enforcement.

Mr Rosenthal presented the officers with certificates of appreciation for their work.

Of the two men’s longevity in law enforcement, Mr Rosenthal said this week, “I appreciate the long and dedicated service they have given to Newtown, and I have enjoyed working with Chris and Scott as a member of the Police Commission, and now in my current capacity.”

The first selectman added, “We are fortunate to have a police department where a majority of the officers have served for a long period of time, as they understand the importance of community. Chris and Scott reflect that tradition of service, and I expect they will continue to do great things for Newtown.”

Police Chief James Viadero also commented on the two officers’ service to the town.

“I would just like to commend both officers on their years of service to the community. Their tenure speaks volumes about their dedication to the agency and service to the community,” the chief said.

“Both officers have served an exemplary career and I’m pleased to say that we can expect many more years of dedicated service from both,” he added.

“Both officers’ roles in the department, serving as leaders, bodes well for the future of the agency. I’m extremely proud and honored to serve with both officers,” Chief Viadero said.

Of his long tenure, Captain Vanghele, who is second in command at the police department, said this week, “I’m proud of the service that I’ve been able to provide to the Town of Newtown.

“This is an extremely difficult occupation. It seems to get more difficult as the years go on. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

The captain added, “I hope to stay in law enforcement for at least another decade... I’m very fortunate to work in a community like Newtown.”

Sergeant Ruszczyk observed, “The department is heading in a great direction. We have a great leader. It’s a real pleasure to work here.

“We work in a great town. I work with great people. I still very much enjoy police work. It’s been a pleasure working with everybody. I work with very good people.”

Sgt Ruszczyk is a past president of Newtown Police Union. Following the December 14, 2012, mass shooting at Sandy Hook School, Sgt Ruszczyk has worked to ensure that police officers generally have access to mental health programs in the aftermath of traumatizing on-the-job incidents.

Several other town police officers have passed the 25-year mark at the 45-member Newtown Police Department. They are Detective Joe Joudy, who was hired in May 1985; Patrol Officer Robert Haas, who started work in January 1989; and Lieutenant Aaron Bahamonde, who was hired in February 1993.