102-Year-Old WWII Vet, Cherished Crossing Guard, Bids Emotional Farewell

Quick Smiles:

• Thomas Faucette, a 102-year-old World War II veteran, retires after 36 years serving as a beloved school crossing guard in North Carolina.
• Faucette’s unwavering commitment to Guilford County schoolchildren’s safety has made a lasting impact on the community.
• The Greensboro Police Department, school staff, and students bid an emotional farewell to Faucette, a tireless server of the community for decades.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Greensboro Police Department (@greensboropolicedepartment)

In the heart of Greensboro, North Carolina, a beacon of commitment and modesty has guided young minds for years. Now at 102, World War II veteran Thomas Faucette has decided to retire from his duty as a school crossing guard, a role he served for over 30 years.

Post-war, Faucette became a guardian angel to the schoolchildren of Guilford County Schools. His unmatched resilience and devotion spanned 36 years, marking an impressive second career ensuring the safety of children crossing to Peck Elementary School, following his time at the U.S. Postal Service.

Reflecting on his last day at his post, Faucette candidly expressed,
“I don’t know which way to go. Up, down, south.”

His wife, Elizabeth Faucette, shared insight into the joy he derived from his work,
“The pleasure he found in his job was seeing them safely crossing the street,” she said.

As his term ended, the school community assembled to give a heartfelt farewell to their cherished crossing guard. Classrooms were vacated and hearts filled with gratitude as they expressed their thanks to their everyday champion.

Principal Ashley Triplett shared,
“Not many people reach this point in their career and live a life as incredible as Mr. Faucette has.”

Elizabeth Faucette mentioned that the full effect of his retirement hadn’t completely hit him yet, and she is making plans for his retirement years.

Triplett remarked that the next crossing guard would indeed have huge shoes to fill.
“I don’t know who we’ll find to replace Mr. Faucette. Whoever comes after him will certainly have a tough act to follow.”

The Greensboro Police Department, joining the well-wishers, expressed their deep gratitude for Faucette’s remarkable years of service. They voiced their appreciation by saying,
“we cannot thank him enough for his years of service. Now that he’s 102 years old, he truly deserves an amazing retirement.”

Their sentiments summed up the community’s feelings beautifully,
“Thank you, Mr. Faucette.”

Source