Crestview's new fire chief named

CRESTVIEW — Fire Department Deputy Chief Tony Holland is the Hub City’s next fire chief, Mayor David Cadle announced Thursday evening in a prepared statement.

Holland has been with the CFD for 24 years and served in an administrative role for the past 11 years. He has held every position at the CFD and been promoted through the ranks during his tenure with the department.

During that time, Holland has worked to make CFD a leading department in the region through various upgrades, programs and improvements.

He was responsible for installing tablets in all stations that allow responders to gather real-time emergency information; he acquired an updated dispatch system to improve the department communication center; and he expanded the public fire prevention program from a month-long program to year-round training.

While with CFD, Holland has become a chaplain for the department and is an active member of the Okaloosa County Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team. The team provides psychological and emotional support to first responders following emergencies.

Holland will replace current Fire Chief Joe Traylor, who has served in the position since 1993. Traylor, who announced his retirement earlier this year, will step down at the end of April.

Holland will become chief at that time and lead the department’s 45 employees.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview's new fire chief named