10/02/2025
After nearly 23 years of firefighting service Assistant Fire Chief Rick Saenz has decided to retire. Last week, WSMR FD along with Garrison Leadership, members from Fort Bliss Fire Department, Holloman AFB Fire Emergency Services, Kirtland AFB Fire & Emergency Services , Spaceport America Fire Department, friends and family gathered to celebrate the end of this chapter in his life.
Assistant Chief Saenz dedicated half of his life to the federal government. He started his firefighting career as a teenager with El Paso County ESD #2 as a volunteer firefighter with Montana Vista Fire Rescue. During that time, he enahnced his skills and started working as a Fire Suppression System Technician and obtained his NICET certification. In 2003 he was hired by WSMR Fire Department as a firefighter. His knowledge and experience allowed him to promote through the ranks. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2007, Captain in 2008, and finally AC of Operations in 2011. He closed out his career as the departments longest tenured Assistant Chief.
In his 23 year career in the federal fire service, AC Saenz responded to over 2600 emergencies to include incident commander of the 30-day long Abrams Fire. He's left an everlasting legacy, mentored countless firefighters, and made an impact to the departments he's served.
We wish you & your children the best of luck in your future endeavors.
WSMR FD and the WSMR community thank you for all your contributions and dedication you gave us all these years. You will be missed and leave big shoes to fill. Enjoy your retirement, "We got it from here Chief".