end of watch
Final patrol sign-off
End of watch marks the conclusion of a duty shift, especially for police officers and military personnel.
The phrase carries ceremonial weight when announcing an officer's death in the line of duty or retirement: Officer Martinez, end of watch, March 15, 2024.
Often abbreviated EOW.
The phrase evokes the tradition of standing watch—maintaining vigilance until relieved.
- tapsLight repeated touches
- honor guardsTroops for formal occasions
- shiftMovement or work period
- bagpipesDroning wind instrument
- bereavement leaveWork absence for mourning
moment of silence · funeral processions · service medals · in memoriam · fallen heroes · memorial plaques · thin blue line · date · wreath laying · remembrance ceremonies · time of day · patrol · grief counseling · cruiser · military honors · folded flag · badge · pallbearers
end of watchswearing in
Formal oath-taking ceremony
sworn in · commissioning · enlistment · induction · rookie year
end of watchretirement
Leaving the workforce permanently
honorable discharge · resignation · transfer · medical retirement · desk duty
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