Fire Chief Anderson says final goodbye

Acting Deputy Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson presents Chief Neil Anderson (no relation) with a picture taken on scene, along with the quote, “We accept the reality of the world which we are presented,” a phrase Anderson often used throughout his service.

By: Amanda Nelson

On June 26, Stratford Fire Chief Neil Anderson hung up his helmet for the last time and celebrated with local firefighters, whom he said are friends, not co-workers.

“This has been an experience, and it’s impacted me considerably,” he said. “I see friends here, not co-workers. It’s been an experience. It’s been an honour and a pleasure.”

Anderson, Stratford’s Director of Emergency Services and fire chief, joined Stratford Fire Services in 2017 after his military career. He is known for making a true impact and leading with his heart, as Mayor Martin Ritsma said at the fire station last Friday in his address to Anderson.

“The sincerity of how you handle your job is one of a kind,” said Ritsma. “I know you look out, and you're seeing your guys that play that part of the team, but sometimes we don't have that balance. We have somebody who's pretty warm and emotional, or somebody who's really cold and professional, and, as I've said many times, you have an amazing combination of both the caring and the professional pieces that make you one of a kind.”

The fire chief has been vocal about the mental health impact of the position, noting that this is a long-awaited mental health break and a time when he plans to catch up on caring for his physical and mental health. He also said that he’s looking forward to getting some rest and spending time with his family.

“Twenty-one years with two phones, that's one thing I'm not going to miss,” said Anderson. “A couple of weeks ago, it was getting to the point where anxiety would slip in when I checked the work phone on weekends or evenings. Now I've got one phone, I don't even have to answer it. That's good news.”

Acting Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson (no relation) presented Anderson with mementos of his time at the fire station, including a plaque made from his helmet and a picture taken during his service. He spoke about Anderson’s accomplishments and leadership capabilities.

“Chief Anderson wasn't just a boss; he was a mentor, a confidant and an advocate for every man and woman in uniform,” Andy said. “You, sir, have fostered a culture of brotherhood, sisterhood and excellence. We'll all deeply miss you.”

As the final sign-off rang through the fire station, tears welled in the eyes of many, including Anderson, as he said his final goodbye to the men and women of Stratford Fire Services.

“Chief, you've answered your last official alarm,” said Andy. “Your legacy is permanently etched in the history of this department and the safety of this community. You have earned every bit of this chapter on behalf of the City of Stratford, the officers, the firefighters and the citizens you swore to protect. Thank you for your proud service, your sacrifice and your friendship. Congratulations on your retirement, and enjoy a long, peaceful and well-deserved rest.”

Acting Deputy Fire Chief Andy Anderson has been named interim chief, but the city is searching for a new chief and aims to find and name Anderson’s replacement in the next couple of months.