An Old Cop Stands Down

On this, my second day of retirement from the police department, I woke up at 3:30 AM in preparation for a day shift I no longer have to work. I guess it will take some time to adjust my sleep patterns.

Yesterday, Debbie and I met with the Chief and his command staff. I was given my retired identification card, my retired badge, my Glock handgun, and a nice display case with all my badges, ranks, awards, etc.

This morning, I went to the monthly breakfast of retired police officers from our agency. To be honest, it still doesn’t feel like I’m retired – only like I’m on vacation. After breakfast, I drove to the PD where I turned in all my uniforms, equipment, weapons, and other gear.

There are things I will miss about being a cop, but there are surely things I won’t miss. Here are a few of each:

* * *

Some of the things I’ll miss

Having coffee with my fellow squad members in the morning – including the jokes, the gripes, and the general good feeling of being with people I trust to watch my back;

The memorable arrests over many years of robbers, thieves, burglars, and other human predators in society who prey upon innocent people;

The opportunity to make little differences from day to day as you help people face and resolve some of their problems;

A few of those things I won’t miss

Department politics;

Twelve-hour shifts;

Dealing with petty thieves, punks, drug addicts, drunks, wise asses, professional transients (who love being transients), domestic violence calls, dead body calls, and a host of filthy, dirty, slimy situations involving people who just don’t get it.

* * *

Now I have to take a deep breath and discover what it’s like when you don’t have to punch a clock every day. After all, for the last 43 years it’s been either college, the Army, or work. Yes, I know I’m lucky to even have the chance to retire.

For me, it’s on to the next adventure – whatever that may turn out to be. I’ll also work on promoting the book, try to finish another one, and enjoy some carefree time with Debbie.

Stick around; this old man ain’t done yet……

Charles M. Grist
www.MyLastWar.com