Wilson and Thomas retire from the VIcksburg Fire Department

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Captain Richard Wilson and firefighter/EMT and noted breakfast chef Wade Thomas retired in a ceremony held at the Fire Department’s Central Station.

About 40 co-workers, family and friends along with Alderman Michael Mayfield Sr. and Fire Chief Derrick Stamps Sr. were all on hand to celebrate the retirement.

Deputy Chiefs Jessica Cade and Trey Martin along with Chief Derrick Stamps celebrate their co-workers. Photo by David Day

“I want to say thank you to everyone in here. I had a wonderful time these 30 years with no complaints,” said Thomas.

Captain Richard Wilson started with thank you as well, “I just want to start with Miss Ann, 28 years of getting payroll in on time,” which caused the whole room to burst into laughter and applause. “We all appreciate that.”

Captain Richard Wilson, Alderman Michael Mayfield and Firefighter/EMT and noted breakfast chef Wade Thomas. Photo by David Day

“The only way you get to retire up here is because this is really a family,” said the Captain. “You really get to appreciate the men and women you work with. I want to thank you all for doing this.”

As this has become a tradition, each firefighter was presented with a plaque noting some memorable moments from the years with the fire department.