The evening of March 4, 2017 was bittersweet for city residents and the Jacksonville Police Department during an open house retirement celebration to honor Sergeant Dan Moore. Dan served the city for 22 years, coming to the job after serving more than 20 years in the Air Force. Dan was hired by Chief David Towe, who at the time was the youngest police chief in Oregon. Despite their difference in age, the two men worked well together, forming a bond and lasting friendship that stood the test of time. During his remarks before a packed US Hotel Ballroom crowd, an emotional Towe (a rarity) expressed his sincere thanks to Dan before presenting him with a framed plaque which encases Moore’s police badge. Sergeant Moore was humble and succinct in his remarks, wherein he thanked Towe, his wife, Robin, and his fellow police department officers and staff for making his career in Jacksonville a memorable and gratifying experience. Dan noted how well-respected the department is and how much he appreciated the support of the community. Since he lives very close to town, Dan stated that he’ll be around…to which the crowd applauded loudly!
Chief Towe says he was pleased looking around the room and seeing the outpouring of support for the Sergeant from members of the community, the mayor and members of the council, city employees and former members of the department. “It made me proud to be a part of such an amazing little community. I am truly blessed to be able to come to work here every day.”
The event was hosted and sponsored by the Jacksonville Police Department, under the guidance of Police Clerk Kathy Tiller. Jerry Evans of the Jacksonville Inn donated the use of the US Hotel Ballroom. Platon Mantheakis, manager of the Inn and a member of the Jacksonville/Applegate Rotary Club, provided the logistical support and bartending services. Other supplies, food, beverages and funding were generously donated by The Jacksonville/Applegate Rotary Club, Ray’s Food Place, Jamie and Blue of Back Porch Bar & Grill, Summit Beverage, Dave and Kathy Edwards, Katie Haugse, and officers Bill Lupton and Lee McColly.