Dracut Fire Lt. Kevin Martin stands for a photo with Chief Richard Patterson. (Courtesy Dracut Fire Department)

DRACUT — Fire Chief Richard Patterson is pleased to report that Lt. Kevin Martin is celebrating his retirement after serving the Dracut Fire Department for 29 years.

Lt. Martin joined the department as a call firefighter in 1995, and became a full-time firefighter in 1997. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2003.

Lt. Martin wrapped up his career on Monday with a brief retirement celebration at the Jones Avenue Fire Station, followed by a ride home on the department’s antique 1948 Diamond T Fire Engine.

“Kevin has been a major contributor to the success of our department. From his many years on the Safety Committee, educating the new members about air brakes and the workings of a fire pump, to lending his expertise in heavy equipment and developing a driver training program, to say he will be missed is understatement. His mark will be left with the new engine and tower that he helped spec and the wealth of knowledge he has passed down to the membership.”

“Involved in many committees during his time, Kevin was a powerful voice and champion in many safety initiatives to keep our members safe during his career,” said Capt. Al Stamp. “His wealth of mechanical knowledge and his passion to share this with our membership to educate and advocate has been a valued asset for this department. You do not replace firefighters like Kevin Martin, you celebrate the opportunity to have learned from a great man!”

Martin, who plans on spending more time with family and friends now that he is retired, said his biggest lesson learned from the job was that leadership comes in many styles, and that treating others with respect, honesty and fairness will always come full circle back to you.

He said his advice for younger firefighters is that the job is what you put into it.

Dracut Fire Lt. Kevin Martin gets a hug as he celebrates his retirement from a 29-year career. (Courtesy Dracut Fire Department)

“Give it your best efforts of ideas and values, and keep trying to make improvements,” Martin said. “Continue to build on your skills to stay sharp. And always remember that you will be appreciated for your efforts from the citizens you serve even when they are having their worst day.”

Martin said the best part of being a firefighter was the special bond that firefighters share with brothers and sisters on the job.

“Knowing you have a second family to share your successes with and rely on during difficult times is really special,” he said. “I will always be proud and thankful to have served in this profession. It truly is the most rewarding job!