The Chicago Fire Department has tapped a veteran firefighter to serve as First Deputy Commissioner when the current deputy retires.
Richard C. Ford II has been named to the position following the retirement of First Deputy Charles Stewart, according to a release from the Fire Department.
Ford is currently the head of CFD's Fire Prevention Bureau, and began his career as a firefighter 30 years ago. Since then, he has served as Safety Officer, Rail Liaison for the City of Chicago and Assistant Director of Training. He is from the Chatham neighborhood and currently lives in Beverly.
One of the hallmarks of Ford's work is his implementation of food truck safety rules, working with the National Fire Protection Agency to protect consumers, vendors, and employees.
As First Deputy Commissioner, he will be the second-highest ranking official in the Department, handling day-to-day operations and assisting with policy and recruitment, the release states.
To replace Ford, Fire Commissioner Jose Santiago has promoted Arriel Gray from second-in-command to head of the Fire Prevention Bureau. This bureau is responsible for inspections and enforcement of the fire and safety codes of Chicago.
“The elevation of both Richard Ford and Arriel Gray not only maintains the diversity of our department, but continues my goal of promoting members to better serve the needs of the department and the city we protect," Commissioner Santiago said in a statement.
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The appointments are effective Feb. 16.
