Evanston Fire Department Shift Chief Al Lermer announced his retirement in a Thursday news release after 28 years of service.

Lermer joined EFD in 1990 and has since served on a number of committees, served as an underwater rescue diver and trained new fire recruits at the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy, according to an EFD news release. Lermer began his career in public service with the U.S. Navy in 1984.

“Chief Lermer has always been a dedicated firefighter, paramedic and fire officer who helped advance the department’s mission, especially in the areas of training and EMS,” EFD Chief Brian Scott said in the release. “He will be missed.”

Community members are invited to join the department for a flag lowering ceremony at Fire Station 1, 1332 Emerson St., on Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. to honor Lermer.

“The Evanston Fire Department would like to wish Al a happy and healthy retirement and all the best with his future endeavors,” the release said.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @sydstone16