HOULTON, Maine — The Maine State Police Troop F barracks has turned to one of its own to be the next commanding officer.
Brian Harris, a native of Houlton, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant at a special ceremony at the Troop F barracks on Friday. Many fellow law enforcement officers and family members joined Harris for the swearing-in ceremony.
Harris replaces John Cote as the Troop F commander. Cote served as the local commander from July 2013 until his promotion to Major of Operations Division in Augusta in May.
Col. Robert Williams swore in Harris, stating his appointment was “a good thing for Troop F and the Maine State Police.”
Harris’ wife, Sandy, presented his new badge, while his children Caleb and Caitlyn put new pins on his uniform.
Cote said he was very pleased one of the sergeants from Troop F rose to the top of the ranks to become the new troop leader.
“It gives me great piece of mind knowing that the person at the helm (of Troop F) has that great local knowledge and connections, not only with the troopers that are in place, but also with the community,” Cote said. “The state of Maine is very diverse, and Aroostook County is a special and unique place. Therefore, the way we police is unique. Having someone who understands that mindset and the close connections we have with our communities, will really gear Brian for success.”
Prior to joining the Maine State Police in November, 1994, Harris worked in the private sector at Houlton Tire. When he became a trooper, Harris said the notion that he would one day be in charge of the sector for Aroostook County was the farthest thing from his mind.
“When I started, I was happy to be a trooper,” Harris said. “I never thought I would be able to be in that position. When I became a sergeant five years ago, it was the same feeling. Now, here I stand today. It is a dream come true.”
As lieutenant, Harris is responsible for all the administrative aspects of running Troop F, as well as providing any necessary support for training. Troop F typically carries a compliment of 18 troopers.
“Before as a sergeant, I supervised a section of six troopers,” Harris said. “Now, I am going to be supervising the entire Troop F. I will be in charge of all the troop functions, with a lot more working from the barracks, taking care of the troopers, making sure they have the equipment and training they need to do the job well.”
Friday’s ceremony was an emotional one for Harris as he thanked all of the individuals who helped him get to this point in his career.
Being able to take over the Aroostook County division was especially sweet for Harris.
“I grew up in Houlton, graduating in 1989, and the one thing I wanted to do in my career is stay in Troop F,” he said. “I wanted to stay in Aroostook County. These are the people I know and the people I want to serve and protect.”
Harris resides in Blaine with his wife and children.
