The Eupora Fire Department’s has announced the promotion of Reagan Gary to assistant chief and the retirement of a longtime member.
Gary has been a lifelong resident of Eupora. He has nine years of service as an EFD firefighter and five years as an operations captain.
“During this time, not only has he strived to better himself, but he has a passion to support, empower and lead the firefighters under his command,” Fire Chief Mitch Jackson said.
“With his 14 years of constant dedication, knowledge and leadership skills, Assistant Chief Gary’s hard work ethic will continue to be an example to our firefighters and an integral part to the outstanding emergency services our city provides,” Jackson added. “Congratulations Assistant Chief Reagan Gary! Well-deserved sir!”
Love retiring
after 26 years
of service
Gary will be replacing longtime former EFD Chief, Assistant Chief and current Webster County Deputy EMA Director Richard Love, who joined the department in 1992.
Over the next 26 years Love excelled in every aspect of what it takes to be a volunteer firefighter. Long hours on late-night callouts, numerous classes and certifications, brotherhood, teamwork, leadership, compassion and the willingness to be there for others in their hour of need.
During Love’s career his children grew up in or around the fire service, which was a huge part of their lives — all with the unwavering support and help from his wife, Lynn.
Love rose through the ranks over the years to captain and assistant chief.
In January of 2011 he was appointed as EFD’s chief. While chief, the department made numerous advancements in computerized reporting, public relationships through social media, firefighter training, recruitment, organization and local businesses relationships. But creating a family atmosphere within the department was without a doubt his greatest achievement and one that will continue.
During this time he also served as Webster County’s deputy emergency management agency director, a post that he still holds with that same dedication to the people he serves.
In September of 2014 Love stepped down as chief in support of Jackson to make more time to spend with his family. He would continue to serve three more years as EFD assistant chief until deciding to retire in September of this year.
“Chief Love and his family will always be special to the Eupora Fire Department. It’s truly hard to find someone as caring, upright and compassionate about public service and the people we serve as Richard has been,” Jackson stated.
“The family atmosphere he created within our department and with our citizens is a bond that will continue,” the current fire chief said of Love. “Your EFD family will continue to be here whenever needed. God bless you chief! Thank you sir!”
