With more than three decades of service with the APD Motors Unit, Corporal Dick Hill parked his bike Tuesday morning to talk about the ride.
He spoke about the peaks and the valleys, and what it takes to be a respected officer of the law.
"I am approaching the end of my career and I am having more fun now than I did when I started 38 years ago," he said. "I love my job."
Since joining the Arlington Police Department Motors Unit on July 2, 1982, Hill estimates he's covered countless miles of roadway, worn out dozens of pairs of leather boots, and issued thousands of warning and traffic citations.
His most memorable stop?
"A woman who was speeding down Division Street," Hill recalled. "When I walked up to her car, she was breastfeeding."
This was before the requirement of child safety seats, he said. He instructed the woman to slow down, and pull over in a safe place in order to feed her baby.
When national leaders like former president George Bush arrive in the city, Corporal Hill is one of the officers asked to provide the escort to special events. He has provided escorts for funerals, rock star Ted Nugent, Major League Baseball and National Football League team owners.
Acting Chief Will Johnson said, "Corporal Hill has a unique ability to take personal motivation and provide excellent service consistently."
At age 64, Hill said he has no immediate plans to park his Harley. On the annual physical fitness test, he scores higher than some officers half his age.
Everyone wants to know the secret to his success.
"It's his positive attitude and good work ethic," said Sgt. Kevin Hileman, one of Hill's supervisors.
Hill remains a legend on the streets of Arlington. This UT-Arlington graduate played college football from 1966 to 1970. In 1970, he went pro as a wide receiver for the Chicago Bears. One year later, he was traded to the Eagles when a knee injury sidelined his career.
He said being a part of the Arlington Police Department team is the best organization he's joined. His proudest moment was when the department named him Officer of the Year in 1996.
"I have followed my heart," the husband, father and grandfather told reporters. "It's been a great ride."
Officer Hill said he gives others the same courtesy he would want in return.
"When you treat people fairly and with respect, you get respect. It's just that simple," he said. That's how I want to be remembered."
By the numbers…
20 Years of safe driving service
25 Pairs of motorcycle riding boots he's worn
300 The temperature of his motorcycle engine on a hot summer day
7,000 Estimated number of citations he's issued since 2009
850 Estimated number of Police employees who know and love Officer Hill
By Cheryel Carpenter
Headlines, News, Police