ROCHESTER — For outgoing Police Chief David Dubois and newly appointed Chief Michael Allen, family support — both at home and among fellow officers — is paramount to maintaining a strong department while serving a community.

After 29 years with the department, including the past 10 as chief, Dubois retired and officially handed over the reins to Allen, who has served in the city for 24 years, during a change-of-command ceremony in the Rochester Opera House Thursday.

Hundreds of people, including family members, friends, fellow officers and numerous local, county and state officials, filled the historic theater to support Allen and Dubois, each of whom recognized the people who shaped their lives.

“I wouldn’t be here where I am without you and I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you,” Dubois said to his wife, Linda, during the ceremony.

He also recognized his father, Richard, who served as a patrolman in Somersworth and as a Strafford County sheriff’s deputy — which inspired him to become a police officer — and for his mother, Lucy, who advised him to not to let others hit him without hitting back twice.

“That brought me home many nights as an officer,” Dubois said, adding he was glad his parents and his family could be there Thursday, as they had been there all along.

Earlier this year, Dubois, a Somersworth native, announced his intent to take over for Strafford County Sheriff Wayne Estes, who also plans to retire after serving the area for nearly 30 years. Meanwhile Linda promises to keep him busy around the house until the filing period later this month.

He will also be able to enjoy spending some time with his sons, Brendon, 26, and Kyle, 23.

“Now that he’s retired he may finally be able to beat me at golf,” Brendon said, knowing full well how his father will enjoy the challenge.

“Police officers need a family,” Dubois said.

Allen’s wife, Dina, and their children, Rachel, 17, Matthew, 8, and Katherine, 5, said they are excited about the opportunity and they will continue to be supportive, even as long hours loom ahead.

“It’s an honor to be chosen to lead the Rochester Police Department,” Allen said, adding he will rely on his command team to lead officers and staff forward.

Police Commission Chairman Jim McManus said Dubois and Allen, each of whom worked his way up from patrolman, exemplify the three words inscribed on every police cruiser in the community — dedication, pride and integrity.

“That’s Dave Dubois and Mike Allen,” McManus said.

Gov. John Lynch, who’s worked with Dubois often in the past 10 years, said the entire state is lucky to have such a dedicated officer who helped him create and pass a law to protect children against sexual predators.

“The police department is a cornerstone of the community,” Lynch said, expecting Allen will continue building the reputation of professionalism within Rochester police.

Major T.J. Jean said he sleeps better at night with the knowledge the city is being safeguarded by a police department led by Dubois, who helped make the community a better place. He expects the next generation of police to continue to do the same.

Dubois recognized how the chiefs he served with laid a foundation of excellence and helped make the department one of the best.

He recalled how Ken Hussey, who hired him in the 1980s, fostered partnerships with other agencies; while Don Vittum taught him about ethics; Ted Blair revolutionized the department’s technology in the 1990s; and Dan Auger, his predecessor, began the community policing programs which are still in place today.

Dubois said these attributes were incorporated into the department and directly led to its success through the hard work of the many officers and staff who make up the force. He added he is grateful for his time with them and will definitely miss the people who have become his extended family, including Allen.

“I know you are going to take this department to new and wonderful places,” Dubois said, adding Allen needs to rely on members of the Police Commission and the department, including executive secretary Becky Warburton, who’s worked with the past five chiefs.

Dover Police Chief Anthony Colarusso said Dubois reached out to him to form a stronger partnership between the two neighboring Seacoast cities.

“Resources are scarce and crime does not know boundaries,” Colarusso said, adding he looks forward to working with Allen in the same capacity.

“I am committed to continuing the legacy left by Dave Dubois,” Allen said, adding he will work to help make the department succeed within its budget without compromising safety of area residents.