Darby police training center dedicated to history-making Marine

DARBY, Pa. (WPVI) -- The Darby Borough Police Department on Friday dedicated its training center in honor of Lt. Gen. Ronald S. Coleman, a Darby native who became the second African American in U.S. Marine Corps history to attain the rank of three-star general.

Community leaders, law enforcement officials and residents gathered for the ceremony despite heavy rain to recognize Coleman's achievements and his ties to the borough.

"He had to go through a lot of obstacles. He had to be very reserved and also very smart - and he made it!" said Darby Councilmember Alfred Robinson Jr.

The newly renamed training center is where Darby Borough police officers will train. The honor carries special significance because Coleman once served as a Darby police officer before his military career.

"It is so exciting to see this training facility renamed in the honor of our lieutenant general, our home-bred hero," Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton said.

Darby Police Chief Joseph Gabe Jr. reflected on Coleman's lifelong connection to the community.

"Born in Darby, raised in Darby, served as a police officer, served our nation as a United States Marine, and now forever honored in Darby," Gabe said.

Mayor Joar F. K. Dahn said he hopes the dedication will serve as a lasting lesson for future officers.

"My hope is that every future officer who enters this room will understand the significance of the name above the door," Dahn said.

Gabe also praised Coleman's example for residents.

"Your story is one that should make every resident of Darby proud," he said.

Coleman said he hopes his journey will inspire young people in Darby and beyond.

"You can do anything if you put yourself to it!" Coleman said when asked what he would say to today's youth.

In addition to having the training center named in his honor, Coleman was officially declared a top brass hometown hero.

Addressing those gathered at the ceremony, Coleman expressed his gratitude.

"God bless you all. God Bless Darby, thank you for everything!" he said.