The Rochelle Police Department held a retirement open house on Thursday afternoon for Tony Milburn who spent more than 16 years as a 9-1-1 dispatcher. Police Chief Eric Higby presented Milburn with a retirement badge, mentioning how much he appreciated Milburn’s commitment to his job as dispatcher and sense of humor along the way.
Dispatch supervisor Sandy Sullivan also commented on Milburn’s commitment to working, especially during a time of need. Sullivan presented Milburn with a plaque and a cup filled with lifesavers, symbolizing the importance of Milburn’s work as a dispatcher fielding many types of emergency calls, and the lives saved.
Rochelle Mayor Chet Olson expressed his gratitude to Milburn, whom he referred to as “Mr. 9-1-1” for all of the people he has helped throughout his years of service, extending well wishes for retirement.
Over the years Milburn has helped thousands of people in their time of need. Among the many calls answered, a couple of those stand out.

“We had a domestic situation, the police were dispatched. The guy opened the apartment door, but slammed it on the police,” Millburn said. “They asked me to call him. Finally after what seemed like forever I convinced him to come out. It was about 15 to 20 minutes.”
Another call that stands out for Milburn was the time his mother was calling, suffering a heart attack.
Before his employment as a police dispatcher, Milburn worked for the Rochelle Fire Department for 22 years as a firefighter and E.M.T.
Now that he is retired, Milburn said he plans to travel.
“I’m going to ride my motorcycle, work on cars, small engines,” Milburn began. “My daughter and I have talked about starting a restaurant.”
Adding, “I already have two vacations planned this year.”