At a time when many police officers have been under scrutiny, one department is remembering men who dedicated their lives to the force with remarkable length of service.

The Stratford Police Department honored four men Thursday who contributed at least 40 years of service.

Capt. Joseph Buturla started in 1946. Officer Eugene Freeman and Officer Richard Cahill are World War II veterans. Chief John "Jack" Geary started as a patrol officer in 1924.

Their families were also recognized.

The officers' names will forever hang outside the department.