...Back End of an Era After a long and fruitful career in public service, Battalion Chief Jerry DeWeese has decided to retire and spend some more time with his family. Chief DeWeese had the following to say: "My career at chesterfield began on July 15, 1971. After working in the retail business for 10 years, and having friends who worked in the fire service, the job was interesting to me. After a 2 year visit with my Uncle Sam and returning from Viet Nam, I decided to try for a position in the fire department. In July of 1971, that position became available and I was lucky enough to get the job. I worked my way through the ranks from Engineer to Lieutenant to Captain, to Battalion Chief - the position I have held for more than 20 years. The fire service takes a lot of you time, on and off duty. With the level of training that is needed today, the service has changed a lot in the past thirty five years. Firefighters are called on for all kinds of situations from emergency medical service to floods, fires, auto accidents, swift water rescues, hazardous material spills, aircraft crashes, confined space rescues and the list goes on and on. You name it, and the fire service is usually the first to respond. This is also what makes the job so rewarding and challenging. You don't become a firefighter overnight - it takes a long time and lots of dedication to the job. I am proud to say that under the leadership of Chief Chip Biele that I retire and leave the Monarch FPD with Fire Stations and equipment that is second to none. The men and women of Monarch can be proud of the service they deliver to the citizens of the Monarch Fire Protection District. I have no special plans for retirement - more time with my family and enjoying the free time will be nice..." Chief DeWeese was an invaluable asset to the District and he will be missed by all those whom he came in contact with. The Board, Officers, and Staff would like to wish Chief DeWeese all the best. Updated  Tuesday, January 02, 2007