Great Bend Fire Chief Mike Napolitano hasn’t reached the finish line yet but he sure can see it. Thursday, August 31 will be Napolitano’s last official day on the job after working for the department for the past 43 years. Before becoming chief in 1998, Napolitano worked as a volunteer firefighter, firefighter, EMT, paramedic, captain, and assistant chief.

Veteran Great Bend Fire Department Battalion Chief John Stettinger says Napolitano’s leadership will be missed.

John Stettinger Audio

Fire Inspector Mark Orth has worked a long time with Napolitano and says the chief always worked hard to get the best equipment for his firefighters so they could work in a dangerous job as safely as possible.

Mark Orth Audio

While a search for his replacement has yet to begin, the department’s three Battalion Chiefs will all help lead the department after Napolitano’s retirement.

Napolitano submitted his resignation on August 11.