He'll always be THE CHIEF, a name he's earned with pride,
Even when his term is over, and he must step aside.
His rise through the ranks to this pinnacle of success,
Took years of special training ~ a dedication few possess.
Many are remembered who've shared his role in life,
Above all ~ the "firehouse widow", his every-lovin' wife!
His lungs have tasted toxic fumes, his skin has felt the flame,
Aches and bruises went hand-in-hand, like thunder in the rain.
As a soldier of good Florian, our Patron Saint of old,
He's fought his share of battles, too numerous to unfold.
Destiny makes us brothers; he'll never be alone,
What he sent into lives of others, has come back to his own.
From those who've worked beside him, it's said with fond belief,
May God be with him always ~ and, he'll always be THE CHIEF.