Richmond City Manager Terri Vela and Tom Walleck.
February 28th marked a sad, yet happy occasion at the Richmond Fire Department as Firehouse Battalion Chief Tom Walleck retired from the Richmond Fire Department after 36 years with the department. The morning began with a breakfast prepared by Walleck’s crew, along with stories enjoyed by his crew, City administrators and elected officials. Walleck was presented a gold watch recognizing his 36 years of service by City Manager Terri Vela .
“Although retired from the department and the demands of managing one of three shifts of highly trained and motivated firefighters, he is not retired from our hearts” said Fire Chief Mike Youngblood, who knew Walleck for many years prior to becoming the Fire Chief of the City of Richmond. “While working in Missouri City, I responded to mutual aid calls to Richmond and remember working with Tom. Even then I was impressed with Tom and his crews. Knowing the reputation of Tom and the Richmond Fire Department as dedicated and committed public servants was one aspect that attracted me to Richmond.”
The ceremony ended with newly appointed Battalion Chief Bryan Lewis, who will fill Tom’s boots as the Shift Commander of “C” shift, closing with the following remarks. “We wish our mentor, leader and friend the best. Enjoy your retirement – you have certainly earned it – with love and respect.”