The Bluffton Fire District announced Thursday morning that after more than 28 years of dedicated service, Captain Joseph Dembeck has retired.
Dembeck began his fire service career in 1997 as a volunteer. He was then hired full-time on Sept. 5, 1998.
Dembeck was recognized as Rookie of the Year in 1999 and Firefighter of the Year in 2000 and again in 2006.
In 2002, he increased his ability to serve the community during medical emergencies by earning his National Registry Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic certification.
Dembeck was promoted to Captain on July 1, 2010.
“Captain Dembeck’s career represents a long-standing commitment to service, professionalism and the Bluffton community,” said Fire Chief David Hindman. “We are grateful for his contributions to this organization and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Dembeck was honored during a retirement ceremony and as part of the tradition, Dembeck took his final ceremonial ride home aboard Engine 330.
