Effingham County Sheriff's Office Maj. Julian Delete - Merge UpDelete - Merge UpBowen retired after 26 years of service to the county. He began his tenure with the ECSO in August 1986 and has risen through the ranks, including corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and was promoted to major in 2010.

Maj. Bowen served as the patrol division commander and the division commander of the courts. During his tenure with the ECSO, he has served under three sheriffs.

"His strong work ethic, leadership skills, community relations and genuine interest in helping people have been areas of interest throughout his career," said Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie.

Bowen said he will spend more time with his wife, children and grandchildren.