Ricky Troutt has retired from the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department after 34 years on the job. Ricky was hired on December 15, 1975 and I believe his last day on the books is December 15, 2009 (although he has already worked his last day).

Ricky obtained the rank of Battalion Chief and his last assignment was on the Northside on A-Shift.

Ricky and his wife own Iron Sports Custom Cycles. His son Adam is a firefighter with Roanoke Fire-EMS as well.

Congratulations Chief, if I win the lotto I will hit you up for a custom chopper!

(above) Chuck Wells, Ronnie Renick, Brent Berry, John Sweeney, Ricky Troutt, and Kevin Bell on Ladder 2 A Shift in the early 1990’s. Picture from Maurice Wiseman

(above) Chuck Wells, Ronnie Renick, Brent Berry, John Sweeney, Ricky Troutt, and Kevin Bell on Ladder 2 A Shift in the early 1990’s. Picture from Maurice Wiseman

Soon after posting about the last word I got on employment, I learned that it might change. Yesterday, official word came out that promotions would be put on hold until the fall of 2009. Hiring would also be put on hold until Fall/Winter of 2009/2010.

All I can say to potential firefighter candidates is keep your head up and focus on hiring at the end of this year.

Good Luck.

The Roanoke Fire EMS Department is currently hiring. You may view the various openings at VirginiaFireEMSJobs.com. The last word I got was that we will be having a recruit school starting in July ’09. This may change, or may have already changed, depending on the budget. The number of recruits depends solely on how many retire. Roanoke City has offered an incentive to those who declare their intention to retire between July 1 and December 1 of this year. They must give notice by March 13th I believe. There are rumors of anywhere from 4-15 retirees this year.