Redmond Fire Chief Pat Dale retires after 42 years of firefighting service; Ryan Herrera named successor

(Update: Details of new Fire Chief Ryan Herrera)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Redmond Fire & Rescue Chief Pat Dale retired last Thursday after 42 years in the fire service, officials said Monday, and Ryan Herrera has been named as his successor

Chief Dale came to Redmond Fire & Rescue after spending most of his career in Washington state.

"Redmond Fire & Rescue would like to thank Chief Dale for his leadership, dedication and commitment to the fire district," the announcement said. 

Kevin Broadsword, president of Redmond Professional Firefighters Local 3650, said, "On behalf of the Association, we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Fire Chief Pat Dale for his unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership.

"We are profoundly thankful for Chief Dale’s commitment to the community and to the members of this department. Chief Dale’s time here left an impacting legacy of excellence in leadership that will forever resonate within our department. The association wishes Chief Pat Dale all the best in any future endeavors," Broadsword added.

Ryan Herrera, a battalion chief from South King Fire & Rescue in Washington state, will replace him as Redmond chief, starting March 18.

Herrera is a safety-driven leader who comes to Redmond Fire & Rescue with 30 years of Fire & EMS experience. He began his public service career as a Firefighter/EMT with Port Orchard Fire Department (WA) in 1994 and has spent the last 26 years with South King Fire & Rescue (WA). There, he worked his way up the ranks, serving in leadership positions such as Lieutenant, Deputy Fire Marshal, Captain, and most recently Battalion Chief. 

He also brings 18 years of labor experience, having served as Trustee, Secretary, Vice President, and President of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 2024 (WA).

Chief Herrera has a Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Management from Purdue University Global, and a NWCG Medical Unit Leader certification from Colorado Wildland Fire & Incident Management Academy.