Charles Gibson's last day at work

Charles Gibson, 66, Gibson, retires today from the “World News” anchor desk and from ABC as a full-time employee.

Gibson logged 34 years with one employer, ABC. There, he did his job well and rose to the top echelon of his profession, forming a firm bond with his viewers and offering his gracious signoff, “I hope you had a good day.”

In an orderly and low-key passing of the torch, Diane Sawyer will replace him Monday at the “World News” anchor desk.

Several hundred of Gibson’s ABC News colleagues, friends and family members packed the Kaplan Penthouse at Lincoln Center in New York City Thursday evening to honor the man as he winds down his tenure anchoring “World News” — and to marvel at the broad sweep of a three-and-a-half-decade career at ABC News.

In his farewell speech Gibson said, “It has been an honor to work with all of you, truly an honor,” he added. “I have loved every damn day of it. Thank you.”