After 25 years of service, San Diego Fire Chief Tracy Jarman announced that she is leaving the department.
Jarman says her retirement will become effective June 27, 2009.
"This was not an easy decision," Jarman said in a city news release. "I genuinely love this department and the people I work with, and it has been a great career. I'm proud to have served the citizens of San Diego as their fire chief."
Jarman, who was appointed in 2006, is the first woman to serve as chief of the department.
Mayor Jerry Sanders says Chief Jarman has done a tremendous job leading the city's fire department.
"She is the consummate professional who has worked extremely hard to improve fire service throughout the city and across the region. While I am sad to see her leave, I wish her all the best in retirement," Sanders is quoted in the release.
A national search will be conducted to find a replacement.
