In two straight lines, more than 100 people stood shoulder to shoulder lining the length of a Chilliwack fire hall as they honoured former fire chief Ian Josephson during his retirement celebration on Friday.
A special ‘walk-off’ ceremony was held on March 15 at Chilliwack Fire Department Hall 1 for Josephson marking his 23 years with the department, where he was fire chief for nearly 11 of those years.
The traditional ceremony began with a slow march through one of the truck bays as people applauded.
A special page that went out over the emergency scanner during the ceremony was heard in Chilliwack, the Chilliwack River Valley, Agassiz, Popkum and other surrounding areas.
“Fire Chief Ian Josephson, this is your final callout as fire chief for the Chilliwack Fire Department. Since joining the Chilliwack Fire Department 23 years ago, your numerous contributions, achievements and steady leadership have made our city safer and have made our department an amazing organization to be a part of. It is with the greatest of honour and gratitude that we, your fire family, wish you and your family all the best in your retirement. Thank you so much for your dedication and service to the residents of the City of Chilliwack as well as the members of the Chilliwack Fire Department.”
READ MORE: Chilliwack fire chief prepares to ‘walk off’ into retirement
Mayor Ken Popove said Josephson’s service to the community, and his ability to tackle challenges in a growing city, were “second to none.”
Josephson thanked the mayor and council for their years of support.
“Thank you for ensuring we always have what we needed to succeed and grow,” Josephson said.
He added he was very proud that the Chilliwack Fire Department is one of the most “effective and efficient” fire departments in B.C.
Josephson went on to thank several others including his chief officer, firefighters for their dedication, administration team, and his wife Leanndra and daughters Emma and Kaitlyn for their “loving support.”
With a paper ‘flame’ in hand, Josephson handed the torch over to new fire chief Andy Brown.
“We don’t condone open flames,” Josephson said with a laugh.
Keeping with tradition, Josephson and Brown later climbed into a fire truck and Brown drove the retired fire chief home.
