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P.C. John Swift -  1961

 

We were deeply saddened to hear that our old friend and former colleague, John Swift, passed away on Wednesday 9th September 2026.

John joined the Bermuda Police in July 1961, having previously served in the Royal Air Force from 1958-1960.  He was posted for a short time to Western Division (Somerset) before being transferred to Police Headquarters in Administration.  He spent 2 years in Operations (Traffic) and also served in Special Branch for 2 years before resigning in September 1968 after 7 years service.

John was one of the 17 police officers injured during the BELCO Riot on February 2nd 1965.

Photo taken in the MATERNITY WARD at KEMH on 3rd February 1965, on the day following the BELCO riot.
Lying in the bed is  P.C. David Long who suffered neck and back injuries and was detained longer.
Also in the photograph are standing (l-r) P.C's Chris Floodgate, Andy Maule, Andy Bermingham,
Dave Garland, Tom Hill,  Raymond “Sleepy” DeSilva, and John Swift. Seated is Colin “Dusty” Hind.
 
CLICK HERE to view our ExPo article on the BELCO riot of 1965

John married his wife Susan in June 1965, and they had two children, David born in 1966 and Margaret born in 1968.

John went on to own and operate a very successful business, the Pembroke Paint Company.  He was an avid golfer and was an active member of the Bermuda Senior Golfers Society  where he became an Honorary Life Member in 2013.  

John was pre-deceased by his beloved wife, Susan.

We offer our sincere condolences to David and Margaret and to all their family.