A lot has changed since 1954, but one Arlington police officer’s dedication to serving his community has not.
“I enjoyed doing it,” said Long, 81. “I still do.”
In 1954, Long became one of about 10 officers the much smaller city had at the time.
Little did he know then he’d still be at the Arlington Police Department more than 60 years later.
“I didn’t plan this,” said Long. “It just got better and better. I enjoy doing it and I’ve got a lot of friends here.”
Long worked his way up to lieutenant before retiring in 1992. The very next day, he came back to work for the department as a reserve officer and volunteer. He remains a volunteer to this day.
“Thirty years is an incredible career in law enforcement,” said Arlington Police Chief Will Johnson. “So for somebody to serve a community for 60 years is just extraordinary.”
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On Friday, the department threw a special party in Long’s honor to celebrate his milestone.
“This is just absolutely great,” said Long. “I wasn’t expecting this.”
“We’re just really proud of Lt. Long and what he’s done for this community,” said Johnson.
And he’s not finished yet.
“I’m looking forward to coming back,” said Long.
Long said the most memorable moment in his long career came when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. He and other Arlington police officers had to guard a location of interest that was linked to the investigation.
