Manning reads Vester's resolution.

Commissioners recognized Vernon L. Vester Jr. and Mike Casey with retirement resolutions at their meeting.

Vester, according to his resolution, decided to retire at the end of December as an income maintenance caseworker III within the department of social services.

He spent 24 years within local government, the resolution says.

“I thank the board, DSS and everyone I worked with for letting me serve the citizens of Halifax County,” Vester said after Commissioner Rives Manning read his resolution.

Commissioner Vernon Bryant then recognized Casey, a major with the sheriff's office, for his 30 years of service.

“Mike and I go back 20 to 25 years,” Bryant said. “He is a quiet, hardworking man who is loyal to his boss as well as the citizens of Halifax County he serves.”

Sheriff Wes Tripp, who presented Casey his gun and badge, said, “Major Casey has done just about everything in the sheriff's office and has done it well.”

As a member of the Scotland Neck Volunteer Fire Department and its rescue squad, he gives back to the community, Tripp said. “Volunteerism is dying, but Major Casey is an outstanding person and outstanding citizen.”

Casey said his 30 years have flown by. “It's been 30 years, but it seems like yesterday. It's time to let the young guys chase the criminals.”