Two careers which together totaled 90 years were celebrated with the retirement of the Chief, Virgil Cowin, and Assistant Chief, Garry Page, of the Brownwood Police. Friends and coworkers gathered on Wednesday at Adams Street Community Center to pay tribute and celebrate the many years served.
The room was filled with all walks of citizens, many familiar faces and longtime friends. Blue and white balloon bouquets and tables of refreshments were enjoyed, including a cake with both retirees’ pictures on it. For about 30 minutes there was a long line of people pouring into the room.
“It is not often two people at the same time, dedicate their entire adult lives to such a worthwhile cause as law enforcement,” was the sentiment Mayor Bert Massey gave. He later told Chief Cowin, “We appreciate and love you and there are many, many people in Brownwood that feel the same way.”
Of Assistant Chief Page, Massey joked, “It only took him 40 years to work up to Assistant Chief…I think it has to do with the number of tickets he wrote. He is the grand champion of ticket writing.” Massey further stated, “Brownwood has been his home and the place he’s lived and served for 40 years. We love and appreciate you.”
Before giving the happy retirees a chance to say a few words, Massey stated, “Congratulations on coming into retirement and may God bless you!”
Assistant Chief Page remarked, “I enjoyed it, and now, I’m fired!” smiling.
Chief Cowin spoke to the room full of friends, thanking those close to him and who had assisted him in his career. He also thanked the ladies who had organized such the retirement party. He also thanked Randy Merrick, Bill Hannah and Leon Puckett who had worked with him when he worked as a policeman for the Santa Fe Railroad, stating that they still invited him to annual Christmas parties throughout the years. With a smile Cowin said, “It’s beautiful, all you folks here. If you need anything call me…I never took my phone number out of the phone book”, then turned to Assistant Chief Page, “Did you?” to which the crowd laughed. “It’s been a good ride, I’ve enjoyed it!”
Then a shout of, “We’re gonna miss you!” was heard from within the crowd as a perfect end to the event.
See more photos by clicking the photo gallery below.
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