Sergeant Rob Heard took his final rideout as a Hampshire police officer in grand style, riding alongside Royals and VIPs during the 75th D-Day Commemoration held in Southsea. Sgt Heard led The Queen in a special escort, marking a fitting conclusion to his long and dedicated police career.
On 5 June, Sgt Heard commanded the Special Escort Group as part of the large-scale D-Day 75th anniversary event in Portsmouth. The commemoration attracted global leaders including US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, who gathered to pay tribute to the brave men and women who fought on the beaches of Normandy.
Beginning his career in 1989, Sgt Heard first served at Andover Police Station before fulfilling a childhood ambition by becoming a motorcyclist in Winchester traffic. Inspired by the American television series ‘CHIPS’, he has since escorted VIPs worldwide, including former US President Bill Clinton during the 50th D-Day tribute. Among his career highlights are policing the 2012 London Olympics and overseeing Olympic Torch relays across Hampshire and Thames Valley, achievements that earned him the Chief Constable’s Congratulations.
Behind the ceremonial duties, Sgt Heard worked as a road death investigation sergeant, confronting difficult realities. In 2011, he investigated a fatal collision caused by an 89-year-old driver who was blind in one eye and drove the wrong way on a dual carriageway. This tragedy inspired him to establish the nationally recognised Older Drivers Forum, which provides important safety advice to elderly drivers and their families.
Reflecting on his career and upcoming retirement, Sgt Heard said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my career in the Police, which has been varied and at times challenging. I am proud to have been part of such a dedicated and hardworking organisation.”
He added, “It is an honour to pay tribute to those who gave everything to protect our country before I say goodbye to Hampshire Constabulary. Taking part in the Portsmouth commemoration with veterans and special guests has been incredibly rewarding – a memory I will carry into retirement.”
Looking ahead, Sgt Heard expressed his commitment to road safety, stating, “Making roads safer is my passion, and I plan to continue this work even after retiring. I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact road collisions have on families, friends, and emergency crews. We must all commit to safer road use to reduce these tragedies in the future.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
