Gales Ferry Kids Serenade Officer Liz

When children at the Gales Ferry and Juliet W. Long schools gathered for their monthly assembly on Friday, it was to celebrate America, and also to say goodbye to an old friend.

After 25 years on the Ledyard police force – 15 years as its D.A.R.E. officer – Officer Liz Smith will retire from the department on Nov. 30. She has accepted a new job at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital.

Students serenaded “Officer Liz,” as she is known throughout the school system, with the D.A.R.E. anthem. During her career she has graduated approximately 3,400 Ledyard fifth-graders from the D.A.R.E. program.

"Even though I won't be here, I hope you all will continue to make good choices that will help you throughout your life," she said.

She received a standing ovation.

The partiotic-themed assembly also included a color guard from the Sub Base, patriotic songs, cheers and even some hula-hooping. Students wheeled in several wagons of donated food for the Jaret Kulmann Food Locker.

Watch Monday for a video on the Jaret Kulmann Memorial Food Locker at Gales Ferry School.