Mayor Martin Burns initially nominated Eyler for the chief’s job in June 2002, after then-Chief Neil Bechtol retired. His nomination was based on the recommendation of a panel of law enforcement officers. But, at the time, three town commissioners wanted to appoint Frushour, who had served on the Thurmont department for more than 20 years, as chief. After more than six months of debate among town officials, Frushour received the appointment.

Lt. Ted Nee has been acting as interim chief for the town’s police force since July 31.

Eyler and his wife live in Thurmont.

He began his police career with the town’s police department in March 1979. He transferred to the sheriff’s office in November 1980, and rose through the ranks.

Eyler has been in charge of handling all homeland security issues for the sheriff’s office for the last several years. This week, he is in Annapolis taking a training seminar in agricultural terrorism.

‘‘Coming back to Thurmont has been a long-term goal for me," Eyler said. ‘‘I wanted to bring my expertise and experience after serving on the Frederick County Sheriff’s department for 25 years, back to serve the citizens of Thurmont."

Eyler trained at the Montgomery County Police Academy for six months, and graduated from the FBI National Academy in 1994. He attended Millersville State College and Frederick Community College.

Eyler’s son also serves in the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office; his daughter studies law at Franklin and Marshall College.

‘‘[Eyler] is a top-notch police officer," Burns said.

‘‘He started his career in Thurmont, and has been in the sheriff’s department for 25 years. He is a tremendous leader and is respected among the community. It was an easy choice. I was happy to provide the board with the candidate that they wanted."