When Thornton Fire Chief Greg Sheehan first came to work for Thornton in 1970, the City's population was approximately 13,000 people. Now, after more than 38 years of service to a community that has grown to more than 117,000 residents, Fire Chief Greg Sheehan is retiring.

"Greg's long service and dedication to serving the public have made him a familiar face not only among City employees but the residents of Thornton" says Thornton City Manager Jack Ethredge.

Sheehan first started working for the City on January 19, 1970 in the Streets Department. He became a firefighter on January 27, 1972 and is retiring as a 36-year veteran of the Thornton Fire Department. Sheehan has held various ranks from firefighter to officer including lieutenant, captain, battalion and division chief. He was selected as the Fire Chief in February 2000. It has been a big job, keeping people safe and making sure the City's Fire Department kept in-step with the City.

"Greg's contributions came during a time of rapid growth for Thornton," says Ethredge. Thornton is now one of the largest and fastest growing cities in the Denver metro area, with his leadership, our Fire Department has been able to keep pace with that growth and consistently offer our citizens safety and service."

Chief Sheehan's professional background includes two Associate Degrees: Fire Science and Business Management, and he has attended numerous courses at the National Fire Academy and has held office with various fire associations and boards.

Chief Sheehan will retire on March 5 and will be honored on March 4 with several special events including a reception at the City and recognition by Thornton's City Council.

"Greg has been a great leader and a great friend to the City and its residents," says Ethredge. "He will be missed."