EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is reprinted today due to composing errors in Tuesday’s edition which left some paragraphs out of context.

Mayday is the international signal for distress; therefore, it is fitting that this coming May Day (May 1), is the 30th anniversary for a career of one dedicated to responding to the distress of others.

Lt. Jerome J. Eickhoff of the Artesia Police Department celebrates 30 years of public service with APD on May 1, 2002.

Eickhoff’s family moved to Artesia in the summer of ‘64, which he recalls as the summer of the "big flood."

In 1967, Eickhoff graduated from Artesia High School, after which he served with the National Guard.

On May 1, 1972, Eickhoff donned the uniform of an APD officer for the first time, under the leadership of Chief Jerry Robinson. On July 1, 1982, Eickhoff was promoted to the rank of lieutenant.

"I see it as a running thing — it’s the being able to help somebody to a positive end or solution," says Eickhoff of his role as a police officer.

Remembering over the years, Eickhoff relates a tale from his first months as most memorable.

"The city workers walked out in September 1972. We got to drive garbage trucks, pick up trash and read the water meters. The police and fire departments were the only blue collar workers who didn’t walk out."

Recognizing early on that police work was about meeting the needs of the community coalesced well with Eickhoff’s determination to do a good job and to continue doing so for three decades!

"Overall, over time, the city has been good to it’s employees," states Eickhoff, chuckling as he adds, "At times they we felt they could be better" but seriously, "... overall, we’re treated fairly."

From the first days of patrol to today, Eickhoff has worn many hats in the role of a public safety officer.

Currently, he serves as the jail administrator and oversees building and vehicle maintenance. He is also the evidence custodian as well as assisting on patrol.

Eickhoff holds a simple but profound view of what it means to be a police officer. "We’re there to help create a safe environment for people to live in. We help when they have problems. We’re all around just to be there for them if they need a police officer."

Personally speaking, Eickhoff explains that the rewards reaped cannot be measured in dollars or awards. "There’s a satisfaction in helping, no matter what the needs are ... just knowing that you can make a difference in somebody’s life ... just knowing that you’ve helped somebody makes you feel good. That’s really what counts."

Eickhoff was also a charter member of the Mounted Patrol and had served with the police reserves, as well as serving 10 years with the Sun Country Volunteer Fire Department.

Besides public service, Eickhoff has found satisfaction and deep pleasure in his family, his faith and his fishing.

"I’m very strong in my Christian faith," states Eickhoff, "My wife and I are members and attend Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell."

He and his wife, Joy, married in May 1973 and their family has expanded to include one daughter, Dawn, who is a registered nurse and sons Bert and wife Carol in Illinois; John and wife Michele in Colorado and Michael and wife Margo in Texas.

Eleven little ones are blessed to call the Eickhoffs grandparents.

Joy Eickhoff describes her husband in glowing terms. "He is just a wonderful guy. We’ve been married going on 29 years. He married me with a ready-made family, took my three children and they were his. He’s very special and I love him very much."