Final walk-out for longtime Lewes police officer

“Thank you for everything for the last 23 years. 10-7.”

And with that final radio call to the Sussex County Communications Center, Cpl. Chatham Marsch’s 19-year run with the Lewes Police Department was over. The police code 10-7 means out of service.

A walk-out ceremony was held at Lewes City Hall July 5, Marsch’s final day as a Lewes officer.

Marsch announced his retirement from Lewes police to take a job as an investigator with the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office. Marsch began his career with Bethany Beach Police.

Marsch did not hold back his emotions while saying goodbye to his colleagues.

“I had a lot of love here. Helping these people in this town was an honor and it was fun,” Marsch said.

Lewes Police Chief Tom Spell gave Marsch his corporal’s hat and an official “City of Lewes Retired” badge as keepsakes.

Spell said Marsch made a difference in the city.

“You made a lot of inroads in our community. You certainly will be missed. Thank you for your professionalism, your service and your community-oriented policing style, which served Lewes very well,” Spell said.

As is tradition, the walk-out ceremony ended with a salute from Lewes officers. Marsch walked to his personal vehicle and was escorted out of town by one of his now former colleagues.

Spell said he knows how Marsch felt as he walked away for the last time.

“I went through a similar ceremony at Wilmington Police. It’s emotional. As police officers, we spend the majority of time as police professionals, so when that comes to an end, it’s really difficult,” Spell said.

Spell said Lewes is looking to fill Marsch’s position and three other open police officer positions.

“We like to think we police a little differently. Not let people get away with stuff, but just differently with a community-oriented mindset,” Spell said.