Police Sergeant Douglas Hogate Sr., never thought that his last day of service would go viral. But after 28 years of public service, his emotional sign-off touched the heart of millions.
And that’s not surprising, considering the significance of his final “Code 3.”The 9-1-1 operator’s moving words, were spoken by none other than Hogate’s son, Douglas Hogate Jr.
“That’ll be Code 3 for the final time.”
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Several moments of silence. Then a slight crackling of static.
“It is with great pleasure to announce …,” his son’s voice floats out, filling the cruiser. “… that as of 1800 hours on this date, after 28 years of service, my father, Salem City Police Sgt. Douglas Hogate Sr., Badge #612, is retiring and is giving his final Code 3.
Sgt. Holgate reaches up and removes his glasses, then covers his face with his hands, an almost raw image of emotion tightly held in check.
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“It is my honor as Salem County PST Douglas Hogate Jr. to acknowledge his Code 3 to the greatest man I know,” his son concludes. “Salem City Police Sgt. Douglas Hogate Sr., Badge #612, you are officially Code 3 at 1800 hours.â€
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“The greatest thing about it was that my son was on the other end as a dispatcher,”former Sgt. Hogate said in an interview later, explaining that his daughter captured his reaction on video while his other son, Ryan, was recording it on the other end. “I know it’s been done before, but having my son acknowledge me, that was the best part about it.â€
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Junior reiterated the incredible amount of respect he has for his father, pointing out that in addition to his duties as an officer, he raised two sons and a daughter as a single parent. His children and his career were his top priorities throughout his life. And it’s because his father is — “the greatest man I know”— that he decided to become an emergency dispatcher.
What an incredible legacy to leave behind.
Watch the tear-jerking Code 3 tribute in the video below, and share to spread the love!
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