David (Dave) Paterson - 1987

Dave started in Police prior to WW II, serving mainly in Wellington throughout his career.

Dave was seconded to Special Branch (the predecessor to SIS), and conducted investigations into Nazi war criminals in NZ. 

In the 1960s, Dave became the first Staff Welfare Officer in the Police, and stayed in this role until he retired.

Dave was an Association stalwart throughout the years, and even continued his Police Association involvement following his retirement from Police, writing articles and obituaries for the Police Journal (now Police News). 

Dave also conducted research for the organisation for the 'No Right To Strike' book, published in 1992, as well as assisting in processing some of the first Police Association Insurance claims. Dave carried out the role of Association Historian right into his 80s.

Dave was awarded Life Membership in 1987