TWELVE YEARS AGO Peter Small's childhood dream came closer to reality when he joined the Royal Barbados Police Force as a special constable.
Prior to his enlistment, the Greggs Farm, St Andrew, resident worked as a security guard.
"I always wanted to be a policeman," he told the SUNDAY SUN shortly after receiving a certificate of commendation on Thursday for his act of bravery two weekends ago.
"I enjoy my duty of helping to prevent crime and serve my country," the father of four added.
Reflecting on his decision to pursue the armed bandit, Small said when he heard the report involving the robbery of the two visitors, there was an immediate reaction to "catch the culprit".
"It wasn't difficult," he said of the apprehension. "There was a struggle. I did it (pursued the culprit) before I realised he was armed.
Asked how he felt about being recognised for his bravery, he said: "I feel good; if I had to do it again, I would."
He also saluted the quick response of the driver of the vehicle who assisted in chasing the bandit.
He intends to become a policeman and head to the Regional Police Training Centre when the authorities give him the go-ahead.
And after he graduates, he wants to get involved in solving major crimes, particularly those that impact on the tourism sector.
"I will do my best to curb the illegal activity that affects persons who enter the country.
He has been married to Sophia Small for the past nine years.
For his bravery, he also received gifts from tourism officials and Philip Brathwaite, operations manager at South Beach/Rainbow Hotel/Sea Breeze group of hotels, and Colin Jackman of the Palm Beach Hotel group.
(TS/DS)