CatandJim
Tulsa, as in Oklahoma
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Joined: 08/23/2004
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I am so sorry to read that this many retirees feel the way you do.  I guess there is something that could be done to improve your comfort level at gatherings, I just don't know what. It seems like that would be up to the event organizer to figure out. I like the idea of having a retiree only get together. Perhaps that will be something you will consider. I can understand why a retiree would want to feel welcomed and at home, especially after as many years on the job as some of you have mentioned.
Since I work part time I don't have any issues about retirement. One day I'll just decide I'm ready and stop working. When we go back to Texas I always stop by my former place of employment (11 years) since I have a couple of good friends there. You know, honestly after just three years it doesn't feel the same... I suppose I don't expect it to so I'm not disappointed.
On the other hand, I have "come home" to my place of birth after almost 25 years away. It is amazing how comfortable my hometown is... we both love it here.
To all of you who have retired from law enforcement, THANK YOU for devoting your career to keeping the rest of us safe.
Cat
(Jim just reads the forum once in a while)
Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some sort of battle....
Live simply, love wholly, give generously, care deeply, speak kindly.
Our toys: Sunline T2499 & ProCraft Fish & Ski
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j2catfish
Newport, NC, U.S.of.A.
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Joined: 08/23/2004
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With your background and it looks like you have time on you hands, why don't you write a book?
F350 Diesel; Teton 5er;
Native Texan - Transplanted Tar Heel
Retired USMC
Semper Fi !
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Horsedoc
Dixie --- N. Georgia
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Joined: 09/30/2002
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Hey guys, thanks for all the support and kind words. I didn't mean to bum anyone out, I was just feeling sort of left out I guess - probably more like sorry for myself. It really is sort of sad in a way to realize that what you helped build and set up no longer is 'yours'. Ya'll have made me feel better and I realize that I am not the only one with these kinds of thoughts and feelings.
I believe whomever suggested the get-together for old hands may have something. We could all sit around and discuss old case and declare how much better detectives we were than these bunch of kids around here now.  Seriously though, I am going to contact a couple or three and see how they feel about it.
Again thanks for your ideas and the nice things you said.
doc
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walt34
WV Panhandle
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Joined: 02/25/2008
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Horsedoc wrote:I believe whomever suggested the get-together for old hands may have something. We could all sit around and discuss old case and declare how much better detectives we were than these bunch of kids around here now. Seriously though, I am going to contact a couple or three and see how they feel about it.
Again thanks for your ideas and the nice things you said.
doc
I also retired after 29 years with local law enforcement almost six years ago. We have an alumni association with monthly breakfast meetings attended by 20-30 people and an annual dinner attended by about 200, and it is good to see old friends.
I know how you feel about being on the bleeding edge of things - I started the computer crime/computer forensics unit in 1995 at a time when a home computer was still a rare thing. But leaving was MY decision, and I'm comfortable with it.
I did what I set out to do, what I wanted to do, when I was 22.
I made a difference.
But now it's somebody else's turn.
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Hiker3
Florida
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Joined: 01/21/2007
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I personally feel safer knowing many of our neighbors on the camp loop are active or retired officers of the law.
Please be sure to park so we can see your tags or stickers -- folks do get a higher level of comfort knowing you are nearby.
Your experience is valuable to everyone you come in contact with -- even after retirement.
And I, too, would like to say Thank You for your service -- to all that put their life on the line to protect us.
Livin Lite Quicksilver 8.0 (Folding Tent Camper) only 900 lbs!
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Jaybird
Yosemite, CA & Desert Hot Springs, CA
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Joined: 12/06/2004
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[quote=walt34][quote=Horsedoc]
I also retired after 29 years with local law enforcement almost six years ago. We have an alumni association with monthly breakfast meetings attended by 20-30 people and an annual dinner attended by about 200, and it is good to see old friends.
same thing we do, at a restaurant; every other month 3rd Wednesday
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sele
illinois
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Joined: 03/05/2005
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I have four yrs left before I can take early retirment but not sure thats what I want to do. I really like what I am currently doing maybe a part time job that will keep me busy just a part of the time.
scott
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oltroll
Cape Hatteras NC
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Joined: 11/15/2002
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After 23 yrs. as Assistant Chief and then Chief of a rescue squad I retired as Chief. The new Chief was my assistant Chief. Although I am still a member of the Dept. I have tried to stay out of the daily operations so the new Chief can make his own policies. I still help if he wants advice.
You are right that its hard to do, and how fast your achievements are forgotten.
I think in Sept. I will get out completly and enjoy spending the ret. money.
05 F350 lb Fx4 Super Duity TCPSD DRW CC 4:10
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minnow
Upstate New York
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Joined: 08/30/2001
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Same boat. Retired in March after 28 years. Retired on a Friday and started new career on Monday. With the new full-time job I haven't really missed the old one. I do have a pang or two of "did I do the right thing by leaving" bot overall, no big regrets. Although I do agree with the other poster who said that your personal achievements are quickly forgotten by the guys still on the job. But I know what I did to make the place better and I know the place is a whole lot more professional with top notch employees that I hired and promoted over the years. But it was time to turn the keys over to new blood. I'm fortunate that a new opportunity came along that allows me to do something I enjoy and keeps my mind active. I do think the secret is to keep busy and your mind occupied. At this point in my life, I couldn't just sit around thinking of things to do around the house.
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calmark
Simi Valley, Calfornia
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Joined: 05/22/2006
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RV-1/2n-FUN wrote:You are so right.
Brought this song to mind....
link
And Horsedoc's story brought to mind John Prine's ``Hello in There.''
You are just in another chapter of life. Nothing is lost; much is gained. You have wisdom and experience, and that will not be taken away. But I hope you share it because you will make a difference in someone's life -- and not just your's. Next time you see someone don't pass them up; just say, hello in there.  Enjoy the ride!
The MO-Tel is home to a family of 5 and 2 small Doxies
2006 Winnebago Outlook 31C
Simi Valley, CA
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