For the past 25-years when the fire alarm went off at the fire station in Sterling, Michael Dettman responded. Those days ended, as there was a gathering of friends and co-workers at the station Wednesday to bid the Chief farewell.
Chief Dettman said he would miss the comraderies he has experienced over 25-years. He also said he would not miss the late night fire calls to battle a fire in frigid temperatures.
Over the time, Dettman has held every position in the department. For the past three years, he has been Chief of the department. Dettman said it has been a rough three years due to the line of duty death of Lt. Garrett Ramos. He said that is one of the reasons he is retiring.
Dettman said he is amazed at the changes in equipment and procedures from the days in the 1960’s when his father was a Sterling Firefighter and during his time with the department.
