New Smyrna Beach Fire Chief Announces Retirement

Shawn VanDemark, the longtime New Smyrna Beach Fire Chief, announced this week that he’ll be retiring effective October 18th. When he steps down, it’ll be the end of a 27-year career with the agency. He won’t be stepping away from fire, though – VanDemark will work with Volusia County Fire Rescue as operations chief. “Since beginning my career with the department in March of 1998, it has been my privilege and honor to serve the citizens of New Smyrna Beach and work alongside an exceptional team of professionals,” VanDemark said in his letter of retirement. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together in advancing the department’s mission, improving public safety, and supporting our community through times of need.” VanDemark sent his letter to City Manager Kevin Cowper on September 8th giving the timeline for his retirement. Cowper was quick to praise VanDemark for his years of service in New Smyrna Beach. “Shawn has overseen tremendous progress in our Fire Department and his departure is a huge loss to the City of New Smyrna Beach,” Cowper said. “I want to congratulate him on his retirement and new professional opportunity.” VanDemark first joined the New Smyrna Beach Fire Department in 1998, serving as a firefighter. He was promoted in 2005 to driver engineer, and then in 2008 to lieutenant. VanDemark further rose through the ranks to battalion chief in 2010 before finally receiving a promotion to fire chief in 2017. His career saw him awarded Volusia County Firefighter of the Year in 2007, as well as Paramedic of the Year in 1999. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I have been given to grow both personally and professionally, and for the trust placed in me throughout my career,” VanDemark continued. “I will always value the relationships built with my colleagues and the memories we created together. […] Thank you for the support and encouragement I have received during my career. It truly has been an honor to serve.”