Police Wish Middletown PBA Pipes & Drums Well On Its Journey to Ireland

MIDDLETOWN, CT The Middletown Police Department Thursday sent well-wishes to Middletown PBA Pipes & Drums on its journey to Ireland.

Here is the send-off in full:

On behalf of the Middletown Police Department, I would like to extend our heartfelt well wishes and full support to the Middletown Police Benefit Association (PBA) Pipes & Drums as they embark on their remarkable journey to Ireland.

Formed in July 2012 by a dedicated group of active and retired members of the Middletown Police Department, the PBA Pipes & Drums band was founded to celebrate the rich tradition of bagpiping within the law enforcement community and to honor the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The number "16" proudly displayed on the band’s patch serves as a tribute to Sgt. George R. Dingwall, who died in the line of duty on January 28, 2000.

What began as a small initiative has grown into a vibrant ensemble of approximately 45 active members, including police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and military veterans. The band has become a powerful presence in our community, performing at police and fire department ceremonies, memorial services, parades, and veterans’ events.

This summer, the band will represent Middletown and the United States as they travel to Limerick, Ireland, to participate in a cultural exchange with the City of Limerick Pipe Band. Their visit will include performances at St. Mary’s Cathedral and several other venues across the country. Most notably, they will compete in the 78th Annual All Ireland Pipe Band Championship in Derry–Londonderry – an extraordinary honor as the only American band participating in the event this year.

We are incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and spirit this group has shown in preparing for this international journey. They carry with them not only the pride of the Middletown Police Department but also the heart of our entire city.

We wish them the best of luck in their performances and competitions!

Safe travels and strong winds to our brothers and sisters in the Middletown PBA Pipes & Drums!

With respect and pride,

Chief Erik Costa

Middletown Police Department