Corrections officer keeps it in the family
Khalil Barcia learned many life lessons from his mother but one statement in particular made a lasting impression. “She wanted to steer me in the right direction,” said Barcia. “And she said she would never see me at work.”
Robin Wilson worked as a New York City Correction Officer for more than 15 years before her death from cancer in 2006.
This week, her 27-year-old son steps into the same job — with the same badge his mother wore for all those years.
“I am so grateful for being fortunate enough to have this opportunity,” Barcia said. “I want to do my absolute best and bring it all kinds of honor.”
Barcia, who has worked as a civilian employee at the Correction Department, said he was impressed by the impact the tough job had on his mother.
“I saw the kind of discipline she had,” he said. “She was also able to have a career and provide for our family.”
Last week’s graduation ceremony was a joyous and emotional moment for Barcia and his family.
His grandmother, Dolores Lovelace-mcFadden, was there along with his sister, Shannon Moore. His 10-month-old son, Cameron, came with his fiancée, Ophelia.
Barcia was one of several graduates recognized by Mayor Bloomberg during the ceremony at York College.
“New York City's Correction Officers, our Boldest, may not be as visible as other uniformed services, but our gratitude for the work they do and the risks they face is just as deep,” Bloomberg said. The NYPD Pulaski Association is holding its 56th annual dinner dance on April 27 at Leonard’s of Great Neck.
The cocktail hour begins at 7 p.m. with dinner to follow at 8:30 p.m.
Dariusz Knapik, president of the Pulaski Association of Business and Professional Men, will be honored as the group’s man of the year.
Proceeds from the dinner dance help raise money for the association’s scholarship awards. For tickets and more information contact Michael Lukowski at (516) 804-5922 or Peter Bartoszek at (516) 902-7808.
The New York City Police Department will face off against the New York City Fire Department at the annual “Battle of the Badges” hockey game at 1 p.m. on April 14.
The game, which is part of the 2012 Municipal Credit Union Sports Series, raises money for charities including the New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund.
The game is being held at the Nassau Coliseum. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the box office or at Ticketmaster.com