Bill Hitchens, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety and head of the State Patrol, announced Thursday that he is retiring.
At a news conference held by Gov. Nathan Deal, Hitchens, 64, reflected on his career in military and law enforcement service, which spans more than 40 years.
"It's been my privilege to serve the citizens of this state," he said. "I appreciate the governor ... at his inaugural speech, one of the first words that came out of his mouth were that the primary purpose of government is to protect its citizens. Nobody wants to live in an environment where they are unsafe."
Deal said he would recommend Lt. Col. Mark McDonough, 48, to the Board of Public Safety as Hitchens' replacement. Hitchens' retirement takes effect Aug. 1.
"Col. Hitchens is one of those outstanding examples of a public servant, and we thank him here today for his service to our state and our nation," Deal said.
House Speaker David Ralston also offered words of praise to Hitchens and pledged his support of Deal's pick for a new commissioner.
"It's a bittersweet day that he is retiring," he said. "I look forward to working with Gov. Deal and with Lt. Col. McDonough as we move the State Patrol even further in terms of its professionalism and our treatment of all the men and women who protect us night and day across Georgia."
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