An 80-year-old Paris firefighter has finally retired after 52 years, making him the longest-serving firefighter ever in the department.
Harold "Pee Wee" Sehluterman, served as captain of the part-time department from 1995 to 2004. He was the assistant chief from 2004 until he retired Dec. 31, 2020.
“You’ve got to be and need to be dedicated to be a fireman," said Sehluterman, who officially served 52 years and five months.
“He probably knows more about fighting fires than the rest of us know," Fire Department Chief John Paul Wells said.
Wells described Sehluterman as very thorough in his position, staying until he was sure it was clear, saying he dug through rubble to ensure all the flames were out, no matter how small.
“Pee Wee would stay until the bitter end," Wells said.
Sehluterman said he always liked helping people and that's why he kept being a firefighter for so long.