Longest serving firefighter to retire from Ocala Fire Rescue

(OCALA, FLORIDA) In 1976, things were quite different in the fire service. That was when Hank Smallwood began his career with Ocala Fire Rescue. Firemen at the time were still riding on the back step of apparatus, steel air bottles were seldom worn, and the only woman on the payroll was a secretary. “Things have certainly changed for the better over the years, and I am glad to have been a part of it” stated Hank Smallwood.

“Hank has served the department and the citizens of Ocala well,” stated Fire Chief Dan Gentry. Hank Smallwood is a Fire Equipment Operator, and is also the President of Local 2135.

After serving more than 33 years, Hank will work his last shift on February 28^th. Currently he is the longest serving member in the department.

For further information contact Brian Stoothoff at (352) 629-8306