BY JIMMIE WILLIAMS
ORLANDO – I would like to thank the City of Orlando and the Orlando Fire Department for inviting me to this historic moment in history. It’s a first time for everything and this is my first time in this room of Change of Command. I guess I have arrived. Lol! Keep up Orlando. This great event was held at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in the Pugh Theater on July 26, 2022 at 10am. Chief Charlie Salazar started his career in the fire service nearly 29 years ago as a firefighter Paramedic for the Dallas Fire-Rescue and worked his way through the ranks up to Executive Deputy Chief. He earned his Master’s in public Affairs and Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Texas and completed the Fire Service Chief Executive Officer Program. With a population of more than 1.3 million residents, and a fire department of 2,000 members, his mission in Dallas focused on fire suppression, emergency medical services, and fostering community relationships. Chief Salazar looks to bring that same wealth of knowledge to Orlando, with a commitment to strengthening relationships in the community and providing the top-rated service that Orlando residents have come to expect, all while preserving the pride and tradition that OFD has built burning its 137 years. Welcome Assistant Chief Craig Hulette, Prelude Orlando Firefighters Pipes and Drums, Presentation of Colors Orlando Fire Department Honor Guard, National Anthem Orlando Firefighter Christopher Rodriguez, Invocation Chaplain Lonnie Crawford, Remarks Mayor Buddy Dyer recognizing interim Chief Craig Buckley introduction of 21st Orlando Fire Chief Chief Charlie Salazar swearing in, Pining and presentation of helmet to Fire Chief Charlie Salazar and the benediction chaplain Lonnie Crawford. Get to know your City Officials.
