Lt. Col. Charles Anthony, the voice and face of the state Department of Defense for nearly 24 years, is retiring and will become director of public affairs for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Anthony’s public affairs role with the state included the Hawaii National Guard and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. His last day is Friday.

The Hawaii Air National Guard member said he maxed out the 28-year limit on commissioned service, and actually exceeded it a bit, requiring him to retire.

“The Hawaii National Guard has been a part of me, or I’ve been a part of it, for more than half of my life, and it’s been an absolutely fantastic experience,” Anthony said in a phone interview.

He said if he could do it longer, he’d “probably do it for another 28 years. But at least I’m being given the opportunity to continue to serve my state and country.”

Ten months ago, Grace Hew Len, the joint base public affairs director, died unexpectedly, said Capt. Jeff Bernard, Joint Base Pearl Harbor- Hickam commander.

“Grace achieved much and is still missed by all of us,” Bernard said.

Bernard added that Anthony is well-known and well-respected in the community.

“He is a trustworthy, compassionate and seasoned public affairs officer who will bring great skills with him when he checks aboard,” Bernard said.

As public affairs officer for the joint base, Anthony will focus on the installation. Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific also have public affairs officers.

Anthony, who starts in the new job July 9, said Maj. Jeff Hickman, the current deputy public affairs officer for the state Defense Department, will be his replacement.