Civil Protection Department director Peter Cordina, 61, retired last week relinquishing his "exciting" post at the end of a long and "colourful" career.
It all began when he joined the police force as a constable in 1967 and was promoted to inspector seven years later.
Five years later, he was transferred to the Armed Forces of Malta, where he became a captain and eventually a lieutenant colonel.
Two years on he returned to the police force and was put in charge of the Administrative Law Enforcement unit, shortly after it was set up to better enforce environmental regulations.
Then, another five years down the line, he faced his greatest challenge yet when he was appointed prison director.
However, two years later, he asked to be transferred again because of personal reasons, and the then government had obliged.
While still a member of the police force and still enjoying his rank in the army, he was sent to the Civil Protection Department, where he was eventually appointed director.
"This meant I had to use all the experience I gained when in the police force and army," he said.
"One of my biggest challenges was training my men, especially in fire fighting and rescue."
Nevertheless, he still holds the police force at heart.
"As the saying goes, once a policeman, always a policeman. I have always remained one at heart," he said.
Notwithstanding, he is clearly proud of his achievements at the CPD. He was instrumental in clinching several deals with foreign counterparts so that they would lend their assistance should disaster strike the islands.
This allowed the CPD to receive a wealth of training, especially in scenarios that are not often seen locally, such as earthquakes, floods and forest fires.
Moreover, during his time in office, the department recruited more than 100 people, half of whom went there from the police force, as well as several volunteers.
Today, it is divided into eight sections, including an international relations office, a marine unit and a humanitarian aid division.
Once retired, Mr Cordina intends to take life a bit easier but remains a member of the CPD, this time as a volunteer. He promises to give a hand when necessary.
"At the moment I am also evaluating other options which are available but I'm taking my time in coming to a decision. However, relations with my foreign counterparts and public awareness will always remain on my agenda," he said.
kbugeja@timesofmalta.com