KERNERSVILLE, N.C. — Kernersville Police Officer Sean Houle was honored at his retirement celebration Tuesday night.
Earlier this year, he was shot in the line of duty and survived. Back in November, Houle told WFMY News 2 he wouldn't be returning to the force. Instead, Houle said he's found a new calling - sharing his story of survival with others.
Life changed for Houle on February 21. He was shot in his face, arm, and hand. He spent nearly a month in the hospital and countless hours of physical therapy.
"I recently found out that I'll be medically retiring at the end of the year, just based on doctors' recommendations throughout, with the injuries that have occurred," Houle said.
Houle said his official retirement date will be January 1, but tonight he is turning his stuff in.
“This is my path, this is where I’m supposed to be," Houle said. “I really want to be a blessing to others moving forward, get involved in ministry work, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Samaritan's Purse, do some work with them, youth at my church, I’d like to write a book, so I got a lot of things I’m trying to do moving forward in the future, and I have a feeling I’ll be plenty busy.”
He won't be retiring alone though. The police department is going to let Houle's K9 Jax retire alongside him.
Houle said he hopes to inspire others when they hear his story of survival. He retires this December.
At last check, the Kernersville Police said the man accused of shooting him is still awaiting trial.
