PATUXENT RIVER, Md. — On Friday, local first responders were given the chance to celebrate Battalion Chief Rich Wilson and his recent decision to retire from a long career in public service. His decision was met with praises and reflection from his colleagues across the region, including the U.S. Naval Academy Fire Department “Fightin’ 46” Facebook page, as well as the NDWFD Co.13 Patuxent River page.
The following message was posted by the U.S. Naval Academy Fire Department’s “unofficial” Facebook page:
“On November 5, NSA Annapolis celebrated the career of Battalion Chief Rich Wilson on his last day at Naval District Washington Fire Department.
About Battalion Chief, Rich Wilson:
January 1997, Rich was hired as a Firefighter/EMT at Naval Weapons Station Earle, Colts Neck New Jersey. June 1998, he transferred to Naval Air Station Patuxent River Fire Department, where he was promoted to Fire Lieutenant in June 2002 and Fire Captain December 2004, assigned to all 3 stations, prior to regionalization Rich was then promoted to Battalion Fire Chief, assigned to NSA Annapolis, October 2016.
He has received numerous lifesaving awards as a volunteer along with four lifesaving awards (CNIC) while serving at NAS Pax River.
After nearly 34 years of dedicated federal government service Rich has decided to retire and move onto the next chapter of his life.
The brothers and sisters from NDWFD would like to wish Battalion Chief Wilson congratulations on his retirement. Good luck Chief, we wish you fair winds and following seas.