PROSPER, Texas — The town of Prosper has renamed one of its streets after a pillar in the North Texas community.
The man of the hour, or perhaps more accurately, the man of the last 72 years, is Mike Howard. With a record of service that is very well-documented in history.
"It makes me feel so good to do something for people," Howard said.
Howard is currently the longest-serving peace officer in the state of Texas. His journey began in 1952 when he started as an officer, later serving as a Secret Service agent under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. Afterward, he dedicated 18 years to the Prosper Police Department, where he also played a crucial role in training hundreds of officers in the DFW area.
"I wanna live to 72 years to start with," laughed Mayor David Bristol acknowledging Howard's incredible longevity and commitment. Howard has witnessed and experienced more than most and probably experienced more than he could ever share.
A newly named street, "Mike Howard Lane," will ensure that Howard's contributions are remembered not just in the federal, state and local circles where his name is already well-known, but in Prosper. The street is located next to the town's police and fire stations, a fitting place for someone who has devoted his life to public safety.
"We're all family. Pubic safety is a family," said PPD Chief Doug Kowalski.
When asked if this street will be his legacy, Howard humbly replied, "This is my legacy... right here," pointing to his wife Martha whom he's been married to for 73 years.
Howard joked about how he plans to enjoy this honor, saying, "I'm gonna sit there right in the car all day, wave, 'How's your mom and them?'"
For a man who made a name for himself through decades of service, it's only fitting that the town of Prosper has now named a street after him.
"It's a legacy that will live forever," said Bristol.