SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — After nearly 50 years of service to Chatham County, Sheriff John Wilcher is officially retiring. There is a celebration on Wednesday to honor his long career serving the community. For almost a decade, Wilcher has served as sheriff to the residents of Chatham County. Wilcher is officially hanging up his badge and retiring – but while he's stepping down – his legacy is locked in for good. The military veteran first took office in 2016. Wilcher fell short in November to challenger Richard Coleman, who took 54% of the vote. The result came just weeks after a health scare earlier this year when Wilcher suffered a heart incident around his 80th birthday. Over the years, he's earned recognition and awards for his leadership, such as the Georgia Sheriff's Association Excellence Award. He is also known for improving mental health services in jails. WSAV spoke to him shortly after losing the election to find out what he's planning for his future. "I feel great, you know, just ready to go and move into another life. I lost the election. But I didn't lose. Now I can be home with my wife, and my son, and my stepdaughter. And I will have a lot more time to spend with them. I am appreciative to all the people in this community," said Wilcher. If you want to come out and show support for Wilcher - his retirement party is today to honor his years of service. It will take place at 10 a.m. Wednesday morning at the Savannah Elks Lodge on 183 Wilshire Blvd. The ceremony today will wish him well as he moves into the next phase of his life.