Tomorrow is my last day with Lenoir Police Department. Despite my complaints (money and social life), I am truly sad to leave this place. The past six years have been great – I look forward to work almost every day and enjoy the excitement of investigating cases and outsmarting the bad guys. The absolute best part of my job is the fact that I go to work every day with a group of people that I love. My colleagues have become a second family to me, and I will miss all of them.
I will take some great memories with me when I leave. One of the best parts of working for LPD is the fact that I am pretty good at my job. Though there were some areas where I struggled (shooting range), I excelled in financial investigations and forensics. I was fortunate to win a few awards during the past several years, but my favorite was the “2009 Hero” award. I’m pretty sure that I didn’t do anything heroic, but I got my picture in the paper. To a budding media whore like myself, that was a big deal.
I also had the pleasure of working with some amazing officers. Without them, my experience with LPD would not have been so amazing. My supervisors and colleagues were the reason I was successful as a patrol officer and investigator. I owe everything I have to them. Their guidance and leadership helped me develop and grow as an officer. Their advice led me to pursue higher education. Their support helped me get through the occasional tough time.
I am sad to say that I’ll be leaving four of my best friends behind, along with a slew of close friends, behind when I head to Asia. The hardest part of adjusting to life in a new country will have little to do with the country, and a lot to do with not seeing my LPD family every day (and the language barrier – but mostly the friendship thing).
Tomorrow morning I have to do what I have been dreading for weeks. The supply Lt. and I will catalog all of my equipment, put it back in the supply closet, and then I will close out the day as a former LPD officer. That, along with the fact that I have a front-row seat on Det. Wesson’s emotional rollercoaster (sorry Jess), will make tomorrow a tough day.
Wish me luck.
Until next time.
-Taft
Southerner Abroad 
I appreciate the mention of me in the post, but emotional roller coaster? Exaggerate much???? You could have just talked about how much you will miss your favorite partner…lest you know for next time.
I will miss you more than you know. And you’re right – that was an exaggeration. You’re my rock. Seriously, thanks for everything. I appreciate your friendship and look forward to keeping in touch while I’m overseas.