Roanoke Rapids Fire Chief Gary Corbet has announced his retirement, effective September 7.

A 44-year veteran in firefighting, Corbet will have five years with Roanoke Rapids on September 1.

“It’s time,” Corbet said in a brief phone interview before informing his staff of the decision. “My wife and I want to go Myrtle Beach, kick back and enjoy ourselves.”

Corbet said what he would most miss is being around the station. “I will miss the spirit of helping people.”

He said, however, he was ready to step away from government. “I’ve been dealing with budgets and politics so long I’m ready to kick back and relax.”

Under Corbet’s tenure as fire chief, the fire department will be getting a new ladder truck. He mentioned as an accomplishment getting the city to agree to regular replacement of turnout gear and upgrading the equipment and uniforms.

One achievement is the agreement that has the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad going on calls with the fire department. “We were able to mend our relationship with the rescue squad and there will be bright things on the horizon with that.”

Corbet credited the work of previous chiefs with helping get the fire department to where it is. “All the chiefs have brought the department to a newer level and the ones following me will bring it to an even newer level.”