Citizen volunteer groups, law enforcement officials from neighboring cities and federal officials joined the Arlington Police Department Friday to thank Chief Theron Bowman for 29 years of law enforcement service in Arlington, including 13 years as Police Chief.

The Reception at Cowboys Stadium drew current and former Arlington officers, Mayor Robert Cluck, City Manager Trey Yelverton, elected officials and members of Bowman's family, including his 104-year-old grandmother who traveled to Arlington from Malakoff, Texas to surprise him.

Chief Bowman began his law enforcement career with Arlington Police Department in 1983 after graduation from UT Arlington. Along the way, he took advantage of many opportunities to excel. In 1999, he was appointed Chief of Police. Bowman has a master's degree in public administration and a Ph.D in Urban and Public Administration. He is also a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police, the FBI National Academy and the FBI National Executive Institute. In October, he was promoted to the position of Deputy City Manager of Neighborhood Services, which includes the Police Department.

During Friday's Reception, Interim Police Chief Will Johnson called all past and present Deputy Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs to the front of the room and read a Bible verse from Ezekial 22:3.

"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land, so I would not have to destroy it.' Johnson turned to Chief Bowman and said, "It has been a privilege to stand in the gap with you and serve the community.'

City Manager Trey Yelverton told Bowman, "I know you've got more to give our community and I look forward to seeing what we're going to achieve.'

Following well wishes and gift presentations, Bowman reminded those gathered why he chose the Arlington Police Department.

"When I got into this business more than 29 years ago, I got into this business because I wanted to help,' he said.

His legacy of service to the community continues. Congratulations Chief Bowman!

By Cheryel Carpenter