Friends, family, co-workers and community leaders gathered at Central Fire Station Tuesday afternoon to honor and celebrate Interim Fire Chief Curtis Tyndall, who is retiring at the end of June.

Tyndall, who was serving as deputy chief, stepped in as interim chief after Chief Steve Cordell died in January. In the past year and a half, he’s carried out the duties of both positions, but he said it’s been an honor to help lead the department.

“This department has some great leaders in it,” Tyndall said during the official part of the floating reception, which was held from 12 noon to 2 p.m. “Put credit where credit goes,” he told those assembled to wish him well in his upcoming retirement.

He said they all work very hard not to disappoint – themselves, the chief, the city and the citizens they serve. “They’re the ones that made it happen. We’re a level 2 fire department because of them – I’m just a part of that team.”

Colleagues from departments across the county shared well-wishes to their friend and fellow firefighter.

Battalion Chief Lee Edmonds said Tyndall played an invaluable role in his time as interim. “He helped bridge a gap to give the city and the department time to heal,” Edmonds said.

City Manager Terrell Blackmon called Tyndall an asset not only to the fire department, but to the whole community, adding that his retirement will leave a void in the station.

But Blackmon brought encouraging news to the fire department staff, as well, when he said a new chief could be named next week.

Retired Fire Chief Danny Wilkerson said he didn’t think twice when he had the chance to bring before Tyndall back to the fire service after Tyndall – who had retired once before – had spent years working at Vance-Granville Community College as a fire and EMS instructor.

“He’s spent over half his life serving others,” Wilkerson told WIZS News before the formal ceremony began Tuesday. There will be mixed emotions, he predicted, but he said Tyndall should also experience a feeling of accomplishment. “I’m very proud of Curtis,” he said.

Administrative Assistant Amy Colbert, whose office is beside Tyndall’s, said working alongside him has been a great experience.

“You did an excellent job when this department needed you,” Colbert said. “I want you to enjoy your retirement – and come by and visit us.”

Henderson Mayor Eddie Ellington said he’s known Tyndall for many years, and is grateful for his professionalism and dedication. “It means the world to me, and to the city,” Ellington said.

The life of a firefighter isn’t easy, Tyndall told those gathered. Between scheduled shifts and second jobs, time with family often is sacrificed. He offered gratitude to all firefighters’ families – including his own – for their patience and support.

Battalion Chief Doug Owen said he met Tyndall back in 1990 when he joined the department. The last year and a half have been difficult for everyone in the wake of Cordell’s death and said he wishes the interim chief nothing but rest and relaxation in his retirement after more than 40 years of service.

“He won’t be here any more, but this station is always his home,” Owen said.

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