Author Byron Pulsifer once wrote, “Firemen never know what they will encounter on each call but proceed with the same level of commitment and service.”
Citizens of the City of Tennille have known commitment and service for nearly 46 years through Lt. Russell Strickland’s role as a Tennille Firefighter.
Lt. Strickland joined the Tennille Fire Department on October 21, 1976, when he turned 18 years old. Prior to being 18, Strickland volunteered with the department as one of the first members of the Junior Fire Program.
Most recently, Lt. Strickland announced his retirement as a firefighter, hanging up his helmet and his turnout gear.
With an over four and a half decade firefighting career, the Tennille Fire Department and the Tennille Mayor and City Council recently recognized Lt. Strickland with a retirement celebration.
Lt. Strickland was presented with a framed proclamation from Tennille Mayor Eartha Cummings.
“His years of service have been marked by exemplary dedication to the best interests of the community,” said Mayor Cummings. She continued, “Russell has worked constantly for the betterment of the Tennille Fire Department, which contributes to the health, safety, and comfort of this community.”
Mayor Cummings went on to wish Lt. Strickland much happiness in this new chapter of his life.
In addition, Mayor Cummings and the Tennille City Council proclaimed March 22. 2022 as “Russell Strickland Day” in the City of Tennille.
Russell Strickland is the son of Bernice Strickland and the late Bobby Strickland of Tennille. Strickland’s brother, Lee, serves as Tennille Fire Chief.
Left to Right: Tennille Mayor Earth Cummings, Lt. Russell Strickland, Tennille Fire Chief Lee Strickland
