Smallwood honored at retirement/Veteran lawman served under six different sheriffs

By By Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
When Capt. Roger Smallwood put down his revolver and laid his badge aside for good on June 30 he had accumulated 34 years and seven months of service to the people of Morgan County with the Sheriff’s Department. During his long career he served under six different sheriffs, Van Ward, Guy Holloway, Buford Burgess, Steve Crabbe, Russ Beard, John McBride and Greg Bartlett.
A reception was given for the 60-year-old retiree in the basement of the courthouse on June 25. More than 200 people stopped by to thank him for his loyal and dedicated law enforcement service and wish him the best in retirement. They included family members, judges, attorneys, fellow law enforcement officers, public officials and friends.
Tears swelled up in Smallwood’s eyes and he struggled with his speech after he was presented a plaque of appreciation by Bartlett. The mementos included a photo of his patrol car and replicas of his badge and captain’s bars.
Smallwood has worked in the sheriff’s office in recent years. His duties included the transport of prisoners to the various courts, supervision of civil arrest warrants and handling complaints.