After 23 years of service to the community, Firefighter/Paramedic Ed Wright will retire from the department this week.  

Wright began his career in the fire service in 1992 as a member of the Park Forest Fire Department's Paid On-Call Division. He then became a full-time paramedic with the Chicago Fire Department and later returned to Park Forest as a firefighter/paramedic in 2001. 

Wright has served numerous years as the department's unofficial senior engineer, keeping the department's equipment and apparatus ready for response. He became known as an advisor, counselor, and trusted confidant to all ranks and seniority levels at the Park Forest Fire Department. 

"Ed was the senior member of his shift and was the shift "Barn Boss," said Park Forest Fire Chief Tracy Natyshok. "This informal position is given to a member respected by all members on their shift. The Barn Boss is the go-to person who ensures everyone is trained up, squared away, and ready to run. Ed fulfilled this role on his shift and has helped many junior members advance in their careers."

Throughout his career with the Park Forest Fire Department, Wright obtained numerous Illinois State Fire Marshal certifications, including Firefighter II, Fire Apparatus Engineer, Hazardous Materials Operations, and Vehicle/Machinery Operations. In 2010, Wright was named Park Forest Firefighter/Paramedic of the Year for his dedication and service to the department and the public. 

 "Ed has served the citizens of Park Forest with great pride and honor," Natyshok said. "He has undoubtedly made the Park Forest Fire Department better. I am very proud to have served with Ed and have many great memories of the calls we have been on together. His service reflects his skills, deep compassion, and professionalism. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind."

Wright will be recognized Monday night by the Park Forest board of trustees. His final shift is set for Nov. 24.