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A retired firearms officer has returned to West Midlands Police more than three decades after leaving the force, gaining a rare glimpse into the evolution of armed policing since he began his career more than 60 years ago.
Maurice Corden, who retired as an Inspector in 1990, visited the force’s firearms unit to see first-hand how equipment, training and policing tactics have progressed since his time in service. Corden began his career with Warwickshire Police in 1960 before joining West Midlands Police in 1974, where he held a variety of roles including firearms instructor.
During his visit, the former officer was given a tour of the unit’s facilities, including the armoury and specialist vehicles. He was particularly interested in seeing the introduction of tasers and other modern equipment that did not exist during his time in the job.
Corden also had the opportunity to observe a live training scenario involving new recruits—an experience that highlighted the complex challenges faced by today’s firearms officers. He later spent time at the unit’s ‘Armed Police History Wall’, which charts the history of armed policing in the region.
Sergeant Graeme Northwood from the firearms unit said it was a privilege to host the visit: “It was an honour to welcome Maurice and hear all about his experiences and memories from his time as a police officer,” he said.
Officers surprised Corden by presenting him with his original HR file, containing photographs, commendations, and other memorabilia from his decades-long career. “It was a sort of ‘This Is Your Life’ special moment,” Sgt Northwood added. “Our officers really enjoyed talking to Maurice and listening to him recount his memories. It was a real honour to welcome him back to WMP.”
West Midlands Police is currently recruiting new officers across all six entry routes, offering a variety of pathways including formal qualifications, graduate programmes and detective training.
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