Longtime KIII (Corpus Christie) Anchor Joe Gazin is signing off from the station after more than 50 years in the business.

"I consider myself extremely fortunate. It's been a wild ride...I've got the highest regard for management, and the people I work with. I've flown with the Blue Angels, interviewed several presidents, and had a front row seat for the major local events of our time," Gazin said.

KIII General Manager Bruce Cummings chimed in, “Spanning more than four decades in the Coastal Bend, Joe has been a driving force of not only critically important local news, but community goodwill and meaningful outreach as well. He has meant so much to me, the KIII 3NEWS family, and to so many more all across South Texas. Joe’s distinguished track record of impact, connecting with people, and of ‘making a difference’ is one that most likely will never be matched. If you are looking for a champion not only in the business of journalism, but also with serving the greater good of our community, you never need look any further than Joe Gazin.”

He is not leaving the Tegna station on Friday, or even in two weeks.

Dazin will be sticking around until the end of the May book, so the station can milk his retirement for every rating point they can.