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The original item was published from 1/28/2019 10:15:58 AM to 2/12/2019 12:00:04 AM.
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Posted on: January 28, 2019[ARCHIVED] Fire-Rescue Chief Jeffrey Wise to Retire after 40 Years of Service
Chief Wise joined Norfolk Fire-Rescue in July 1978.
NORFOLK, VA – After 40 years of public service, Norfolk Fire-Rescue Chief Jeffrey Wise will hang up his helmet on January 31st, 2019. Fire-Rescue Deputy Chief Michael Brooks will step into an interim role while a national search is conducted for the top Fire-Rescue job.
“Chief Jeff Wise embodies the definition of public servant. Throughout his 40 year career, he consistently demonstrated leadership, selflessness, a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to Norfolk citizens. I wish him the very best in his retirement,” said Douglas L. Smith, Norfolk City Manager.
Chief Wise joined Norfolk Fire-Rescue in July 1978. He was instrumental in the effort to cross-train fire and emergency medical technicians to fight fires and perform medical care. Under his leadership, Norfolk Fire-Rescue partnered with Eastern Virginia Medical School to bring PulsePoint to the community and collaborated with Norfolk Police on a joint bomb squad and tactical response teams.
“It has been a privilege to serve the citizens of Norfolk as the Fire Chief. In 1871 the Norfolk city council established a paid fire department with the goal of providing quality response and service to the citizens of Norfolk. On a daily basis, the men and women of Norfolk Fire-Rescue, continue to maintain that commitment of service from 148 years ago. It is what we do and it is who we are. I wish Deputy Chief Michael Brooks and all the men and women of Norfolk Fire-Rescue the best, and I encourage them to be safe and take care of each other, “ said Chief Jeff Wise.
“I wish to thank Chief Wise for his forty years of service to the citizens of Norfolk. He has been an effective leader and true friend to the members of Norfolk Fire-Rescue. His dedication to our profession has led to many improvements to service delivery within the city. Norfolk Fire-Rescue will always strive to maintain and improve upon the foundation that he has provided in his ten years serving as the Fire Chief. Best wishes for a long and happy retirement! ” said Deputy Chief Michael Brooks.