After 35 years with the Oklahoma City Fire Department, Chief Richard Kelley announced his retirement, closing out a career that spanned every rank of the department.

Kelley joined the department on Sept. 13, 1991, and worked his way through the ranks when he was named the city's 21st fire chief on Sept. 30, 2017.

"Chief Kelley’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the department, its members, and the residents of Oklahoma City," the department shared in a statement.

As he retires, the city operates 38 fire stations and Kelley's efforts in many areas were lauded, including the implementation of an innovative drone response program and increased efforts focused on firefighter safety and health. 

To enhance medical services for the citizens, he launched a fire-based EMS transport program, expanded their Mobile Integrated Healthcare resources and brought a whole blood response program to patients in critical needs of the life-saving treatment.  

Kelley will step away from the job on Sept. 30.