It was an emotional surprise for Kirk MacDonald as his family joined him for his final sign-off after over three decades of service.
On Thursday afternoon, as he was about to make his final 10-7 call which is the police code for out of service, his wife and children chimed in recognizing his years of service as a police officer which brought him to tears.
A video of the sign off was shared on OPP West Regions's Twitter account.
If you live in @wellingtncounty, you probably know the name Kirk MacDonald. After 3 decades in policing, Kirk has retired as media relations officer. His family joined us for the send-off. Happy retirement, Kirk! We'll miss you. ^dr pic.twitter.com/KLcsPCqkDB
— OPP West Region (@OPP_WR) June 17, 2021
“After 32 years of dedicated and loyal service for the citizens of Ontario, my husband, provincial constable Kirk MacDonald badge number 12539 of the Ontario Provincial Police is officially retiring and going 10-7 for the last and final shift,” said MacDonald’s wife over the radio.
When hearing his wife’s voice, MacDonald immediately puts his hand over his heart filled with emotion.
MacDonald retired as a media relations officer after 13 years with the Ontario Provincial Police and 18 years with the Peel Regional Police.
“It’s time to come home,” said his son Liam.
As he signed off, MacDonald thanked the people in the region and gave some advice to his colleagues.
“For all my fellow officers out there, you know, keep in mind, every call you go to, that could be your family members so treat them as such, and continue to serve this province with pride,” said MacDonald as he signed off.
“It's truly been an honour to serve the province of Ontario and the communities that we police. Thank you all. Stay safe everyone.”