Commitment, passion, persistence, and desire to do what is right. This is what today's post is about. Actually, it is about a man that has exuded these traits for 25 years. Think about that; wake up, put on a uniform, hop in a marked car, and have to be an example under constant scrutiny for 25 years. Most of us struggle to go to our safe jobs daily and this man has done the above for 25 years. However, when he woke up this morning, he never has to do it again. He has been able to ring the completion bell and can finally relax. He cared for the community, his co-workers, and his partners.
Today, we celebrate the quarter century of service that Michael Yodonis has given to the city of Lake Wales through his career with the Lake Wales Police Department. He's been patrol, detective in a couple of divisions, school resource officer, and what we most remember him by as a multi-time K-9 officer. His ability to fit in with multiple situations, take information without judgement, and to look out for his community cannot be understated. I mean, for 25 years he has been called names, disparaged because of the badge, not wanted when needed, and rushed in to situations most of us would flee. He did this while being a newlywed, starting a family, having a social life, and further educating himself. He finishes it with a marriage to match the years, children who have finished school and started careers, a wife who is excited for their future, and a calendar that is now fully his. No more overtime, callouts, or storm duty. No missed holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries. He also finishes with his latest partner by his side. Through training, sitting for hours, and recovering from injury, he and Raegar have been side by side the past few years.
I thought about all the accolades he has accomplished and what he has done with his three K-9 partners but really, they don't hold a candle to the fact that for two and a half decades he has chosen to serve so that we could be safe. Selfishly, I'm proud because he's my brother in law and I knew that when I was in Lake Wales he always had my back. Things will be a bit different now. There won't be a patrol car next door, I won't know when he's home or away, and I'll have lost a bit of the security blanket I felt since he won't be on patrol anymore. However, I'm pumped that he will be able to travel without switching shifts, disappear because he has no responsibilities, and we can go have a beer without consequence.
Mike, you've been a constant in the Lake Wales community for a very long time. Many people don't stay in their jobs for a quarter of the time you have served in your position. You can now let your hair down, take up the hobby you've been putting off, and sleep peacefully knowing you've done us all proud. Congratulations on a stellar career, being a servant while being a leader, and for wearing a uniform even when it was looked down upon. Enjoy your retirement, whatever that looks like. I am sure Michelle is ready to cash in the honey do list starting on Saturday!!
We love you, are super impressed by your loyalty, and cannot wait to party at a racetrack soon.
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