"Jack Leuchter has been a community police officer long before the term became in vogue," said Alderman At-Large John Connolly.

"He's patrolled where he's lived, Davis Square," said Somerville Police Chief Tom Pasquarello.

After more than 35 years on the force, Leuchter is retiring, and he received a citation Thursday from the mayor and Board of Aldermen for his long service to the Somerville community.

"Jack is not leaving because he wants to, but because he has to," said Connolly, noting that at the age of 65, "You have to hang them up."

"I've enjoyed my time with the department," Leuchter told the Aldermen. "I can't believe the time has come to leave."

"I just knew I enjoyed doing the job," and "I would continue doing it," he said of his years of service.

In addition to his service as an officer, Leuchter was involved in the Somerville Police Employees Association and was elected its president three times.

Leuchter is retiring at the end of October.

"Jack, we're going to miss you," said Alderman At-Large Bruce Desmond. "We miss you already."