After 38 years of service to the Village of Walden, Police Chief Jeffry Holmes will have his last official work day on July 17.

He began his career in Walden as a part-time police officer in April 1982. He secured full-time employment with the department in 1987. Holmes became a sergeant in 1990 and then took over the department as its chief in June 1993.

During his time as police chief, the department has expanded its number of full-time officers from six to 14. The department also moved to its current location of 1 Municipal Square when the fire department left.

“I think the most major accomplishment is to stay ahead of the curve with technology,” he said. “We’ve had a very supportive board, supportive village managers over the years to keep us on the most technological, cutting edge as best we can with the dollars that we have available.”

In regards to the future of the department, Holmes hopes to see the use of more shared services, as a way to save money. He hopes the department will work with the legislature, district attorney and residents to improve the Walden Police Force.

Holmes will continue to live in Walden. He will continue to serve as a fire instructor with the county. Holmes plans on donating more of his time to volunteer work with the Goodwill Fire Department in Newburgh. He also hoped to give more time volunteering at the West Point Museum.

“I think I’m gonna stay pretty busy,” he said.

Holmes will be honored for his service to Walden on Friday with a retirement walk-out at Walden Village Hall (1 Municipal Square). Line-up will be held at 11:30 a.m. with the ceremony starting at noon. A picnic lunch will follow at James W. Olley Community Park (97 Sherman Avenue, Walden).