Southeastern Wisconsin’s NBC affiliate WTMJ-TV has announced anchor Mike Jacobs, 64, will retire at the end of May, ending a nearly four-decade run on the airwaves.

Jacobs is the longest-serving TV news anchor in the Milwaukee aream having starting his career in August 1977.  

The current host of the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts, as well as "Wisconsin Tonight," said in a statement, "It’s been a blessing to work for a great TV station for more than 37 years. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed witnessing history ... in Milwaukee and around the world. It’s been a pleasure working with so many talented journalists, but it’s time to spend more time with my family. I’d like to thank our viewers for welcoming me into their homes."

WTMJ news director Janet Hundley said the station will recognize Jacobs' long career in May, and said in a statement that "Mike is part of the fabric of this great community. We want to take some time on the air to thank him and to give viewers a chance to look back at some of the stories Mike has covered … stories that have had a big impact on our lives."

Jacobs has won two Emmys and a Peabody Award while also capturing the Milwaukee Press Club's Television Journalist of the Year" from 2005 to 2007.