Today was Chief Rusty Thomas's final day on the job.  After the Sofa Superstore fire last year that claimed the lives of nine Charleston firemen, I honestly think Chief Thomas just needs a break.

He served the Charleston fire department for 32 years, and so it's really the only job that he has ever had.  I don't know how you walk away from the only thing you have ever known, but that is just what he has done. 

Here is what one of our local television stations, WCBD Channel 2, had to say about Chief Thomas in a news piece today:

After more than 30 years Charleston Fire Chief Rusty Thomas walks away from the only job he has ever known today.

June 18th is symbolic for many reasons in Thomas' life.  On that date in 1976 he took his first station assignment as a firefighter for engine eight.  Of course June 18, 2007 is the date the is the date that signaled the end of his career.

I personally do not know Rusty Thomas, but I know he has had a long and detailed career in the Charleston Fire Department.  I have no idea what the future holds for him, but I do wish him nothing but the best!

Thanks for your service over the past three decades!