Gaston County's Police Department recently took to social media to bid a fond and heartfelt farewell to one of their own. Officer Doug Hord, after dedicating 27 years to law enforcement, has entered retirement. The Gaston County Police Department's Facebook post lauds Hord's career as one marked by "integrity, selflessness, and an unwavering dedication" to both his department and the community.
Hord's policing path began in 1997 as a patrol officer and saw him embrace various roles with the sort of zest that wins you not only acknowledgments but deep respect. He served as an Emergency Response Team Marksman, School Resource Officer, and later, made strides in aquatic enforcement as a pioneering member of the Marine Unit. Perhaps his most endearing initiative was the "Flotation Citation" program, aimed at encouraging kids to wear life vests. The post credits Hord with not only saving lives through this program but also with fostering educational opportunities for local families.
In the more recent years of his service, Hord continued to play a vital role, shaping newbie officers as a Field Training Officer since 2020, and later, stepping up as a Community Officer. His work in this area was all about strengthening trust and connection with the community—a fact that did not go uncelebrated as the Gaston County PD awarded him the 2025 Randy Pendleton Award during this year's Award Banquet for his high level of commitment and hard work.
Doug's influence also extended behind the scenes. Whether it was organizing department events like the Pendleton Breakfast, aiding in recruitment, or brainstorming office renovations, his involvement was always a given. The Facebook post remembers him as someone who never got wrapped up in hierarchy or who was technically responsible for what; if there was a need, Hord stepped in. This attribute of his, among others, was recognized and appreciated not just by the department, but by the whole community he served.
