SOUTH POINT - It was an afternoon of celebration, but also a chance to say farewell to Lt. Carl Roark, commander of the Ironton Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Lt. Roark has been promoted and he will now be the fiscal services commander in the OSHP's Department of Finances and Logistics in Columbus. Roark has been at the Ironton Post for five years and three months.

Sgt. Mike Gore has been appointed the new lieutenant for the post. Lt. Roark said Gore's appointment is a blessing.

&#8220It has worked out really well,” Lt. Roark said. &#8220I think I am very fortunate to have been blessed to work with such a great group of people and I am also pleased that Mike Gore will assume command and ensure continued success of the Ironton post.”

Many people were on hand for the celebration including members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, local law enforcement, local government officials and family and friends. All wished both men well in their new offices.

A presentation was made to Roark and Gore by the post and guests had the opportunity to speak and tell stories about the two. The officers were given a token of appreciation from the post, and Lt. Roark's wife, Susie, and their children also received a gift.

Many expressed their fond memories and gratitude to the man - not only as an officer, but as a friend.

Lt. Roark said this was his fourth assignment, giving credit to his sergeants for the success of the post. Gore said he had mixed feelings about his new job as he addressed those who attended the celebration.

&#8220It's bittersweet for me,” he said. &#8220I'm losing one of my best friends.”

Gore has been on the division for 19 years, consisting mostly of time spent in Lawrence County. He said he left for two years to get his stripes - to become sergeant - where he was in Jackson. Then, he had the opportunity to transfer back to the area.

&#8220I'm very happy to get it,” he said. &#8220I'm pleased the division selected me to be post commander in Ironton and carry on the legacies of the commanders before me.”