Fire chief hangs up his cap

(CNS): After more than 40 years in the Cayman Islands Fire Service, Chief Fire Officer Dennom Bodden has retired. Bodden, who moved up through the ranks to become the fire service boss in January 2008, ended his career last month. “I’ve enjoyed my time as a civil servant and my years of commitment to the Cayman Islands Fire Service, but now the time has come to move on,” he said. Acting Chief Fire Officer Rosworth McLaughlin, who was mentored by Bodden, is now holding the top job, while after 34 plus years of service, Craig McCoy has been promoted to Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Aerodrome.

Paying tribute to the former fire chief’s hard work and dedication, Chief Officer in the Ministry of Tourism & Development Stran Bodden said he had many distinguished years of service that could be emulated by officers throughout the ranks of the Fire Service. 

“The ministry has confidence in the Fire Service, and will continue to provide support to its senior team especially during this transition period,” he said. “The Cayman Islands Fire Service is an essential agency for our country. It is charged with fire prevention, as well as domestic and aerodrome rescue and fire fighting. Its objective is to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors to our shores.  I would like to personally thank all Fire Service personnel for their hard work and sacrifices over the years,” the CO added.

During his tenure Bodden encouraged his team to engage in professional development and growth. This led to the Fire Service becoming the first uniformed services department to encourage learning through the Civil Service College. Seven fire officers have already received a diploma in introduction to leadership as a result of this initiative. Meanwhile, a further ten are actively pursuing associates degrees.