Georgia DOT Commissioner Harold Linnenkohl announced the retirement of Richard Palmer from the Georgia Department of Transportation on Saturday after 15 years of service.

Palmer began his employment with Georgia in 1992 as a maintenance worker. Palmer worked his way up through the maintenance division.

He retires as maintenance equipment operator 3 for White County routine maintenance crew. He and his crew were responsible for the maintenance on all state routes in White County.

"Richard was an excellent employee," Linnenkohl said. "He always worked diligently and was an asset to our department and to the people of Georgia. We will miss his friendship, dedication to safety and work ethic."