A couple of things to get out of the way first.  A huge shout out to the volunteers from the Hale-Ray Project Grad team.  They had spent the better part of the year putting together a night-long alcohol and drug free party for the recent grads of the high school.  We had it at the Sub Base in Groton and it was an awesome night.  From everything I heard it was a huge success and it was a privilege to be asked to participate. 

Second, Sunday was our third and final baby shower.  To have three is remarkable and to have that many friends and family who go out of their way to help us in this huge life changing event is just mind-numbing.  Nikki and I are blessed to have such fantastic friends and family.  There is no way to thank them all enough.  Our soon-to-be-daughter is so lucky to be surrounded by a network of love.  We truly do have some great friends and the best family anyone can ask for.

Alright, on to the main event.  Today is yet another milestone for our family.  Today marks the last day of my step-father’s state police career.  After years of dedicated service to his community and state, he has decided to retire.  As long as I have known him, he has worn that uniform with pride and dedication.  Today will be a bittersweet day for sure, but one that is well earned and deserved.  The amount of good he has done for the state and its citizens may never be fully known, but one thing I do know is that the streets of this state will be less safe tomorrow then they are today.

Will there be an adjustment, for sure.  Hell, the man has had a free car and gas for more than half of his life.  He has had to go to work wearing armour, not many people fully understand what that means to the person or their family. 

Knowing what he has gone through for all these many years gives me a greater appreciation for our police force.  Sure, there are ones that abuse the power of the job, but they are such a minuscule percentage.  The overwhelming majority though are dedicated, loyal, honest, good hard-working cops.  My step-dad was one of those and I was and always will be proud to tell people what he did for a living.

He has worked tireless hours to provide for his family.  He has always made sure we get what we all deserve.  His four sons, his daughter-in-law and soon to be granddaughter are blessed to have what he has worked so hard to give us.  My mom is truly blessed to have found the perfect husband, not once but twice in her life and I am so happy she gets him full time now.

It is such a rare occurrence during these times that anyone gets to leave a career on their terms.  At a time when it will be financially beneficial to their family and their employers.  Also at a time when someone is young and healthy enough to enjoy it fully.  This is one of those times.  On Wednesday morning he will wake up officially retired(prob. w’ a doozy of a hangover too ) and I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more.

So congatulations on an outstanding public service career and I can’t wait to see where your “retirement” takes you.