Ironton Fire Chief Thomas Runyon has decided to hang up his uniform after 28 years at the Ironton Fire Department and 44 total years of fire service.

On Tuesday, Runyon’s family, friends, city workers, and representatives from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Huntington Fire Department and Ashland Fire Department gathered to celebrate his retirement.

“We appreciate everything that you’ve done for us the last 28 years,” Ironton Mayor Rich Blankenship said to Runyon. “Just in my tenure it’s been a pleasure and I appreciate everything you’ve done.”

Runyon had all positive things to say about the city of Ironton and its citizens.

“I can’t say enough about the city of Ironton. The citizens have been great to work for and all of my colleagues have done a wonderful job,” Runyon said. “It’s a good city to work for and a small city so there is extra time to deal with the citizens.”

Blankenship presented Runyon with a plaque and the State Fire Marshal’s Office presented him with a certificate for his service.

“My wife has dealt with me being gone for weekends, nights, holidays, dinners, everything,” Runyon said. ”One of the things I’m going to do is give her my attention now.”