Reaching retirement is a thing to be celebrated, because after long years of servitude in your profession, you have finally earned the right to relax and enjoy life. This is especially true for the brave protectors of the law and order. But after decades of engagement, the moment can also be a sad one; a big part of your life is changing and you have to say your goodbyes to people who have been more than co-workers.

Salem City Police Sgt. Douglas Hogate Sr. was finishing his last day on the job before retirement. He announced his final Code 3 – signing off – but little did he know that a very special someone was on the other end of that police radio to send him off.

The 911 dispatch operator was none other than his son, Douglas Hogate Jr., and he had a special message for his dad listening.

“It is with great pleasure to announce that as of 1800 hours on this date, after 28 years of service, my father, Salem City Police Sgt. Douglas Hogate Sr., Badge #612, is retiring and is giving his final Code 3,” the Hogate Jr. said. “It is my honor as Salem County PST Douglas Hogate Jr. to acknowledge his Code 3 to the greatest man I know. Salem City Police Sgt. Douglas Hogate Sr., Badge #612, you are officially Code 3 at 1800 hours.”

Douglas Sr. couldn’t keep his eyes from tearing up after hearing his boy’s endearing words. The police force is certainly going to miss having such an amazing man on their team.

Credit to ‘Salem County 9-1-1 Center.