Eagle Pass Fire Chief Jesus “Chuy” Rodriguez retires after distinguished public service career

By: Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2014, Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc.

Eagle Pass Fire Department Chief Jesus “Chuy” Rodriguez officially retired from the City of Eagle Pass on November 4, 2014, after a distinguished career in public service and was deservedly honored for his 33 years of service to the City of Eagle Pass by the Eagle Pass City Council at their regular meeting held on Tuesday, November 4, 2014.

Eagle Pass Fire Chief Jesus “Chuy” Rodriguez was presented with a plaque of recognition and gratitude honoring his loyal and dedicated service to the citizens of Eagle Pass by Mayor Ramsey English Cantu and City Council. Fire Chief Rodriguez thanked Mayor Cantu, the City Council, his fellow Fire Department brethren, City employees, and citizens for allowing him to fulfill his passion and goal to be a public servant.

“We are appreciative for all that you have done during the years that you have served as our Fire Chief,” said Mayor Cantu.

Assistant Fire Chief Sonny Mello also presented Fire Chief Rodriguez a plaque of appreciation honoring him for his unselfish service and leadership to the Eagle Pass Fire Department and fellow Firemen and staff during his tenure as Fire Chief.

“ I am very appreciative and honored to have served in the United States military, served my country and my community. I would like to thank my wife because she has been there in good times and in bad. As we all know, what this profession brings is unfortunate that we take a lot of our problems home and I would like to thank her for all her support,” said Fire Chief Rodriguez.

Rodriguez thanked Assistant Fire Chief Sonny Mello for his help and support throughout the years with the Eagle Pass Fire Department.

“To the Firemen that are left behind, it’s a big responsibility that you all have. It’s a calling. It has never been about pay for me and I hope it is not about pay for you guys. I have always told the community and City Council that it takes special individuals to be a Fireman and you guys are all special,” said Fire Chief Rodriguez.

After serving in the United States military, Fire Chief Rodriguez returned to his hometown of Eagle Pass and began his service as an Eagle Pass Fireman on August 13, 1981 through November 4, 2014, rising through the rank and file and meritoriously to become Fire Chief.

The Eagle Pass City Council, Eagle Pass Fire Department Firemen and staff, City Department Heads, family, friends, and citizens gave a standing ovation and applause to Fire Chief Jesus ‘Chuy” Rodriguez upon receiving the two plaques in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and exceptional dedication and service to the safety and welfare of the more than 30,000 residents in the community during his distinguished career with the Eagle Pass Fire Department.

The community of Eagle Pass and the Eagle Pass Business Journal congratulate and thank Eagle Pass Fire Chief Jesus “Chuy” Rodriguez for his public service and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.