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All Departments Administration Corrections Development Services Facilities Management Human Resources Information Technology Library Services Management and Budget Services Natural Resources Management Neighborhood and Human Services Parks and Recreation Public Safety Public Works Veterans Services Waste ServicesEscambia County Fire Rescue announces the retirement of Lt. Richard "Steve" Bode after 32 years of serve to the citizens of Escambia County. Lt. Bode's retirement was acknowledged during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Thursday, April 6.
Lt. Steve Bode began his career with Escambia County in November of 1989 as a part-time paramedic with Emergency Medical Services and became a full-time paramedic on March 5, 1990. Lt. Bode transitioned to Escambia County Fire Rescue in 2000 as a Fire Lieutenant, where he served most of his tenure. During his time with ECFR, he remained a part-time paramedic for EMS for an additional 15 years.
Throughout his public safety career, Lt. Bode has worked during multiple emergency activations, including mutual aides, hurricanes, tornadoes, oil spills, ice storms, floods, the COVID-19 pandemic and several other local disasters affecting the citizens of Escambia County.
Lt. Bode attained his Fire Officer Certification and has served as an Alternate/Acting Battalion Chief. He has spent many years mentoring and training fire personnel in basic and advanced life-saving emergency medical care and certifying paramedics in Advance Airway and Critical Care.
On numerous occasions, Lt. Bode has responded to cardiac arrest events and other complicated medical emergency saves. One of these instances is when he saved the life of a Navy pilot that was struck by a vehicle on Perdido Beach. The pilot remains in touch with Lt. Bode and is grateful for the lifesaving care he provided for him.
"Lt. Bode has had an amazing career stretching beyond his time as a career firefighter," said Deputy Fire Chief Paul Williams. "Beyond being hired by ECFR, Steve was a volunteer firefighter at our Pensacola Beach fire station. In addition to the lives he's saved, he has numerous surf rescues as well. Steve was also known for his abilities as a paramedic, having saved numerous lives in that capacity. His many, many years of service and talent will leave a void in the organization. We wish Steve the best in his well-deserved retirement."
Escambia County commends and congratulates Lt. Steve Bode on his retirement, recognizing his 32 years of faithful service to the board, staff and citizens of the county.
Lt. Steve Bode with Battalion Chief Greg Campanella (left) and Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore (right)
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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