Calera Police Chief Don Hyde retired Jan. 31 after serving the department for 29 years.
Hyde was appointed as Chief of Police in Calera in May 2007 and served the department as a reserve officer prior to being named chief.
He also previously worked for the Durant Police Department.
During Chief Hyde’s career, he has been honored with multiple awards including: An honorary membership into the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, a Lifesaver Commendation from the Woodmen of the World, and appointment to the Oklahoma Chiefs of Police Association board, and the District Attorney’s Council (VAWA) Violence Against Women Act, board.
“After serving Calera since 1996 from reserve to chief, it’s time to turn in my badge, hang up the uniform, and find out if all those donut jokes were really true,” Hyde said, in a social media post.
He said he is trading in his radio calls for early morning coffee chats and slowerpaced days.
“Being part of this community and serving alongside such incredible people has been the honor of a lifetime,” Hyde said. “I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, and I’ve learned to double-check my office chair for pranks from my team. While the title of ‘Chief’ may be retiring, the memories, friendships, and stories will last a lifetime.
“Thank you, Calera, for trusting me, challenging me, and supporting me through it all … you’ll officially be seeing a former Chief around town — and let’s just say, I plan on using my ‘senior citizen discount’ to its fullest potential. Here’s to new adventures and always being ‘on call’ for a great life ahead.”
Hyde said serving as police chief in the incredible community of Calera has been one of the greatest honors of his life and that he has been blessed to share this journey with so many amazing people.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the memories, the laughs and the support throughout the years,” Hyde said.
