Nov. 06--SAN ANTONIO -- The San Antonio Fire Department held a dedication and opening ceremony Tuesday for the newly completed Fire Station No. 28 on the city's near North Side.
The 12,400-square-foot facility on Burwood Lane was dedicated to the city's first Mexican American fire chief, Isidore "I.O." Martinez, who died in 2009.
Martinez's family and friends attended the ceremony, which included a presentation of colors, a short prayer, speeches from dignitaries and a rousing rendition of the national anthem sung by retired firefighter Nathaniel Batson.
Martinez spent 36 years at the department, retiring in 1988, officials said. He left a legacy that along with dedication to the job included a more diverse agency -- the first female firefighters were hired under his command.
"This dedication would have meant a lot to him," his stepdaughter, Laura Nunn, said during the ceremony.
The new station was designed to handle increased staffing and equipment as the city continues to grow, officials said. It includes office and storage space, sleeping quarters, a kitchen, laundry facilities and a day room.
Fire Chief Charles Hood said the station will help meet the demands of Council District 1 and shows the city is committed to public safety.
Copyright 2013 - San Antonio Express-News
