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University Park Police Lt. Stephen Bacon would tell you that the town hasn't changed much over the past three decades. There are a few more houses and some newer, younger residents have moved in, but the town is still the same nice place.

"The residents are easy to work with," said Bacon, who lives in Crofton. "They take an interest in the community and I think that's what really makes it nice."

Bacon, 70, retired from the town's eight-member police force Friday after 30 years of service. Many residents and colleagues will remember him as one of the town's most likable and experienced public servants.

"I've been pretty lucky to have him to work with," said town Police Chief Michael Wynnyk, who has been a member of the department for eight years. "He told me everything that I needed to know when I first came here, because he knew everything about the community."

Bacon joined the town's police force in 1980, shortly after retiring from the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C. He worked 20 years in the District, where some of his earliest assignments included working at President John F. Kennedy's inauguration in 1961, and standing guard when Kennedy's body lay in state at the U.S. Capitol after his 1963 assassination.

During 30 years in University Park, Bacon rose from an entry-level officer to a supervising lieutenant. Over the years, he walked the beat, worked administrative duty and became a fixture in the town.

"I was born and raised here, and I remember him from when I was a little kid," said town resident Pete Griva, who delivered a farewell bottle of wine to Bacon on Jan. 28. "This is something to show my appreciation for his protecting and serving us for years."

The Town Council issued a proclamation honoring Bacon before its meeting Jan. 24. Councilwoman Margaret Mallino (Ward 1) said Bacon's experience gave him a knowledge base that less-tenured town employees seldom had.

"He was consistent and thorough," said Mallino, who began working for the town in 1984. "He had that sense of continuity that you don't always get."

Bacon said he plans to spend some of his newfound free time travelling with his wife, Jo Ann. He added that he might take a few college courses or pick up some new hobbies.

"Maybe get involved in a bowling league or something to keep myself active," he said. "[I hope to] do some things I haven't seen and haven't had the time to do."

E-mail David Hill at dhill@gazette.net.