When a cop retires...

[havasu]

When a good cop leaves the 'job' and retires to a better life, many are jealous, some are pleased and yet others, who may have already retired, wonder. We wonder if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we already know. We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times. We know in the law enforcement life there is a fellowship which lasts long after the uniforms are hung up in the back of the closet . We know even if he throws them away, they will be on him with every step and breath that remains in his life. We also know how the very bearing of the man speaks of what he was and in his heart still is.

These are the burdens of the job. You will still look at people suspiciously, still see what others do not see or choose to ignore and always will look at the rest of the law enforcement world with a respect for what they do; only grown in a lifetime of knowing. Never think for one moment you are escaping from that life. You are only escaping the 'job' and merely being allowed to leave 'active' duty.

So what I wish for you is that whenever you ease into retirement, in your heart you never forget for one moment that 'Blessed are the Peacemakers for they shall be called children of God,' and you are still a member of the greatest family the world has ever known.

 

[Sentry18]

My Mom left law enforcement because she wanted to raise her kids, my Dad retired after a full career. In fact he retired just before I started my career. At no point from his last shift through today has he let down his guard or reduced his situational awareness. He still carries a gun everywhere he goes and he keeps up on what's happening in law enforcement. He may not be on duty anymore in service to the state, but he is still on duty. He still gets together with his fellow LEO retirees every September to qualify (LEOSA) and spend the weekend telling stories, mourning those who are no longer around, and complaining about modern law enforcement. When he gets home he puts on his dress uniform to make sure it still fits, just in case that is his last year on the Earth and that uniform becomes his last outfit. It's very somber. I will retire in 5 years or so, and will probably follow in his footsteps post career the same way I did during my career.

 

[Swing]

Thank you both for keeping people safe.

 

[VThillman]

Since the current Chief of Police (the department's only captain before that) took over the job, the department's approval amongst the civilized citizenry has has gone from fair to excellent. Creating the impression of being decent people doing their jobs, pretty much. Small towns (~6K in this case) must make the process relatively easy, with a little effort. About 2 dozen employees, so that helps too.