From: InqNews.com
Mayor Eddie A. Perez congratulates Hartford Fire Chief Charles A. Teale, Sr. on his dedication to public service. The Chief has announced that after almost three decades with the HFD, almost 10 of them as Chief, he has decided to retire, effective April of 2010.
“Chief Teale is an outstanding role model and an excellent example of homegrown talent. This Hometown Hero has demonstrated strong leadership of our nationally ranked and recognized Fire Department. His ability to command this brave group of men and women goes beyond public safety. The Chief is a true historian and student of his craft. He passionately understands and respects Hartford’s role in the evolution of Homeland Security. We salute his years of service and wish him all the best in his future pursuits,” said Mayor Perez.
“I would like to thank everyone who made this opportunity to serve possible. Since 1789, there have been only 35 people to serve in my capacity. Only 5 have done so for 10 years or more. I am truly humbled by this experience and am grateful to have served my City and its proud residents,” said Chief Teale.
MAKING HARTFORD HISTORY! MAYOR PEREZ NAMES CITY’S FIRST LATINO FIRE CHIEF
Mayor Went on to proudly announce that Edward Casares, Jr. will become Hartford’s new Fire Chief effective April 10, 2010. Casares, who currently serves as Chief of Fire Prevention (Fire Marshal), will succeed Charles A. Teale, Sr.
Mayor Perez said, “Hartford is abundant with homegrown talent. Like Chief Teale, Chief Casares is a Son of Hartford. He has overcome challenges to rise to the top of his profession. Ed Casares is a man dedicated to public service, committed to this community, and will faithfully fulfill the demands as the City’s top firefighter. This appointment is a celebration of personal success and diversity for our City as together, we name Hartford’s first Latino Fire Chief.”
Chief Teale who is a student of history and promoted Casares to his current rank. “I based this decision in large part on Chief Teale’s recommendation and his belief that Ed Casares is the best person to maintain the HFD’s national reputation and highest level of accreditation,” said Mayor Perez.
A tragedy 30 years ago prompted Casares to join the Hartford Fire Department. That event was the death of Julio Lozado, a 12-year-old boy who was trapped under a collapsed building. Neighbors had tried to tell the first responders at the scene what was happening but none of the firefighters at the time spoke Spanish. As a result, the Hartford Fire Department agreed to increase the number of Spanish-speaking firefighters.
Chief Casares said, “I never became a firefighter to be a pioneer or a hero. I serve out of love and compassion for the people of this great City. I am humbled by this opportunity to lead such a brave group of men and women. The Hartford Fire Department has a strong and proud history and we are recognized nationally for our achievements. I want to congratulate Chief Teale for his extraordinary leadership over the years and thank him personally for believing in my ability.”
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