South Whitehall’s police department is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

During the commissioners’ June 19 meeting Police Chief Glen Dorney told the board that officers will wear a 50th anniversary badge for one year to commemorate the heritage of police service in the township.

He said two captains and three lieutenants have been asked to oversee community events of their choosing. The chief noted four cadets just graduated from the police academy and will go on patrol with a field training officer for 13 weeks before being on their own. He said the department is “young” with some of the new people in their early 20s.

“As of June 20, we will be at full staffing,” Dorney said.

The police force will then include 41 individuals, plus three K-9s.

Dorney said he would like to add a fourth dog to the department, eventually.