Panama City Beach, Fla. -
After more than 30 years with the Panama City Beach police department, Chief Robert Harding is officially hanging up his badge.
"I will probably miss the job, but it's time to move on," Chief Harding said. "I planned for this for a number of years..30 and out was my target."
The story of outgoing police chief Robert Harding has many chapters. He started with Beach PD back in 1980, when he started as an auxiliary officer in the force.
Chief Harding spun that humble start into a 30 year career, working his way up the ladder and eventually becoming beach police chief. Now the chief says his time has come, and decided to step aside after more than 10 years in the top spot
Before that happened Wednesday, there was time for celebration, reflection, and cake...to honor a man that was universally loved by his peers.
"There's not enough words I can even say to tell you what kind of person he really is... wonderful guy," said Sergeant William Bruhmuller.
"I think the community is really going to miss him for what he's done," Lieutenant Jeff Heath. "He's turned the department into a great place to work...he's gonna be missed," Lieutenant Jeff Heath.
As Chief Harding prepares to start a brand new story, anticipation of the unknown will likely be the title of that first chapter.
"Kinda curious to see what tomorrow brings," Chief Harding said. "When I wake up and don't have to go to work. Everybody tells me it's good, but I'll see."
Captain Drew Whitman will step into Chief Harding's seat Thursday.
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