Milton's Deputy Fire Chief Mark Stephens hung up his helmet for good on Friday, and the town turned out big to bid farewell. Stephens, a stalwart of the Milton Fire-Rescue Department since April 2007 and a firefighter since 1992, received a hero's send-off in a ceremony filled with accolades, laughter, and a fair share of sentimental moments. The revered deputy chief not only served his community with distinction but also became a pillar of unwavering support and guidance among his peers.
The retirement party at Station 44 had a two-fold cause for celebration; not only was Stephens' last day donning the fire coat, but it was also his birthday. Colleagues from across the service spectrum came together to ceremoniously salute him. According to a report by the City of Milton's official website, Chief Gabe Benmoussa started off the commendations, tipping his hat to Stephens for his "sound advice and committed service," and for his dedication to never outrightly say no when called upon, even in the tough and grueling scenarios firefighters often face.
Mayor Peyton Jamison joined in the tribute, reading a proclamation that paid homage to Stephens' years of service: "Mark Stephens has been a trusted and admired colleague, friend, and worker known for his sharp mind, quick wit, and big heart." Jamison's words, as detailed on the City's page, Stephens himself took a turn at the podium, humbly reflecting on his time with the department and expressing gratitude not for the chance to retire, “The lucky part is that I got to do this job.”
According to accounts from the retirement gathering, the response to Stephens' farewell speech was a heartfelt standing ovation. Fond anecdotes poured in from colleagues; Deputy Chief Alex Fortner labeled Stephens as a mentor, while Matt Marietta and Battalion Chief Jason Baswell likened their relationships with him to that of siblings and even a work marriage, mirroring the deep bonds formed in the firehouse. Stephens' parting gifts — a ceremonial axe, a signed picture from a Milton High 9/11 ceremony, a fishing pole to possibly dedicate more time to a leisurely hobby, and notably, the Fire-Rescue Department's first-ever Distinguished Service Medal — were tokens of the high esteem in which he is held.
Lastly, the baton — or in this case, the badge — was passed, as Stephens had the distinct honor to emblem Richard Bushman with the Deputy Chief badge. Bushman steps up to fill the large boots left by Stephens and was quoted saying, "Thank you everything you’ve done... [Thank you] for being a mentor, a leader, but most of all a friend."— a sentiment evidently shared by the whole department, as recounted on the City's news post.
