Contact: David Douglas
Phone: 336-373-2032 

Greensboro Fire Department Announces Retirement of Deputy Chief

GREENSBORO, NC -- (November 30, 2009) -- The City of Greensboro Fire Department announced today the retirement of Danny D. Shumate effective November 30, 2009. Shumate has served the Greensboro Fire Department for over 38 years, most recently as Deputy Chief of Support Services.

Shumate began his career with the Greensboro Fire Department as a firefighter in 1972. Since joining the department, he has held the rank of fire equipment operator, captain, battalion chief, HAZMAT safety officer, assistant chief, and deputy chief. In addition to his fire experience, Shumate holds a bachelor of arts degree in religion and leadership. He also holds an associate degree in fire science from Guilford Technical Community College. He has served on the North Carolina State Regional Response Team Advisory Committee and was appointed by Governor Hunt to serve on the NC Emergency Response Commission in 1998 and 1999.  

Shumate has been a trail blazer almost from the very beginning of his career. He was one of the first firefighters assigned to the medical rescue squad units, was one of the first captains assigned to the hazardous materials team, served as the first hazardous materials safety officer, was the first special operations officer over special teams, was instrumental in creating the department’s first generation of succession planning, helped form the State Hazardous Materials Responders Association, and played a lead role in creating the Regional Response Rescue Teams for the state. During his tenure as battalion chief, he served as the incident commander for the legendary Davie Street fire in 1985 and published an article regarding the fire in a national magazine.  

In announcing the retirement, Fire Chief Greg Grayson said, “Chief Shumate’s retirement will be a loss of great experience for the Greensboro Fire Department. Over his career, he has had a tremendous impact on those around him and truly leaves a lasting legacy in our department.”

“I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to be involved in every aspect of this department," Shumate said. "I’m leaving it with a great sense of accomplishment and some trepidation, but I’m excited about relaxing and spending time with my family and friends.” 

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The City of Greensboro works in partnership with the community to build an increased quality of life for all residents by fostering an environment where inclusion, diversity, and trust are valued. As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a dedicated professional staff of 2,700 employees who maintain four core values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect. The City of Greensboro is governed by a council-manager form of government where a mayor and eight council members act as the legislative body. For more information on the City of Greensboro, please visit us online at www.greensboro-nc.gov.