For almost half of his life, Bob Griffith has been the veterans' services officer and director for Lawrence County.

"It's been good. We've had a good relationship with the people here, it's just been great for 31 years, but there comes a time when you've got to leave," Griffith said.

Even the best things must come to an end however, and Wednesday marked the last day with Veterans Services Griffith, who was being thrown a party in the Lawrence County Courthouse, outside the office he has occupied for three decades.

Griffith was serving on the veteran's board in 1974 when he was asked to take the job of veterans' services officer for a short time.

"They asked me if I could take the job for a few months until they could get things straightened out," Griffith said with a smile.

"I took it for six months and I'm still here."

Griffith said that more than anything he'll miss the people he worked with, people like Lottie Morris, who has assisted him for more than 29 years.

"He's excellent, you couldn't have a better boss," Morris said. "I say that honestly, he's always been there for me. He's been there through the birth of my children. You know, we're family."

Jack Welz has been under Griffith's wing as assistant veterans' affairs officer. He'll be taking over the director's position beginning today.

"It's been very pleasant, and I've been very appreciative, that gentleman has a book of knowledge," Welz said.

If Griffith's co-workers' warm feelings are any indication, Welz will have a lot to live up to in the shadow of Bob Griffith.

As one visitor to the party remarked: "You'll have some mighty big shoes to fill."