After 41 years as officers in the Salvation Army, Major Paul and Virginia Downing will retire on June 28.

They have served in Butler for the last seven years.

The couple began the Christmas program, which served more than 660 families; the After School Club, which helps 60 children per day; a community co-ed softball league; a free summer day camp; and the daily Feeding Program.

They officially retire July 1 and will live in Oil City.