A longtime Plainview firefighter was celebrated Tuesday night for his years of service to the city.
Firefighter Bruce Fowler is set to officially retire on Monday, Jan. 30, after a 31-year-career with the Plainview Fire Department.
Fowler’s official position within the department is Fire Equipment Operator/EMT. He began his career in Plainview on August 12, 1991.
“It’s probably unknown how many lives you’ve helped save in your time here,” Mayor Charles Starnes told Fowler Tuesday night.
Fowler’s been recognized for at least one of those lives saved.
One of Fowler’s more recent accolades includes being among the Plainview FD members who received a Letter of Commendation in early 2021 for lifesaving efforts. Fowler was among a team including Lt./EMT Carson Johnson, Equipment Operator/Paramedic Chris Chandler and Equipment Operator/Advanced EMT Lucas Johnson who responded to a call regarding someone who was choking at a local restaurant and the individual was found unconscious when they arrived. The team of heroes immediately began resuscitation procedures and were able to revive the individual.
The situation prompted a nomination for a Letter of Commendation.
Fowler was presented with a special proclamation on Tuesday in recognition for his service. Starnes read it aloud in its entirety.
The proclamation concludes with the following words: “We extend to him our best wishes and warmest of regards as he prepares to open a new chapter in life and to meet fresh challenges and adventure sin the years to come. May success and happiness always be his.”
During the recognition, Captain David Sells said he’s known Fowler for 35 years and is the one who, in fact, led Fowler to the department.
“He’s the most exemplary employee on the Fire Department,” Sells said, echoing Fire Chief Bobby Gipson’s sentiments.
Gipson described Fowler as someone who immediately steps in and sees solutions.
“That’s both in the station house and on the emergency scene,” Gipson said. “That was something that was valued by all of us for his entire career. It’s nothing short of an honor to work beside him.”
To Fowler, Chief directed these words: “You will be missed.”
A special retirement reception is planned for Fowler on Monday afternoon. The event will be from 4-6 p.m. at Fire Station 3, 3405 SW Third St. The public is invited to attend.