Johnson County Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Rick Morrison retired Tuesday, March 1, after 40 years of service to the district.

A press release says as Battalion Chief, Morrison oversaw operations in the extreme northwest portion of the district, which included Stations 7 (Columbus) and 8 (Fayetteville).

Fire Chief Larry Jennings said,“40 years is a long time to serve in one organization. Chief Morrison was with the district during the majority of its infancy and was always on hand to assist in getting us to where we’re at today. His dedication to the district and the citizens we serve was outstanding, and his presence around the district will be missed.”

Chief Morrison began his service with the district on March 1, 1982, and served out of Station 5 (Centerview) before later moving to Station 7. He spent many years as the Captain at Station 7 before being promoted to Battalion Chief on June 1, 2012, where he remained until his retirement.