Honoring a Legacy: Fire Chief Gary Young Retires After 36 Years of Service

The City of Copperas Cove is honoring the retirement of one of its most committed leaders. Fire Chief Gary D. Young will step down on September 23, concluding an extraordinary 36-year journey of service, dedication, and unwavering support for the Copperas Cove community.

Gary Emmert
1–2 minutes

The City of Copperas Cove is bidding a heartfelt farewell to one of its most dedicated public servants. Fire Chief Gary D. Young will officially retire on September 23th, marking the end of a remarkable 36-year career devoted to protecting and uplifting the Copperas Cove community.

Chief Young began his journey with the city’s fire department on September 23, 1989, and has since served in a variety of roles, culminating in his appointment as Fire Chief on February 6, 2023. Throughout his tenure, he has been a pillar of leadership, guiding the department through periods of growth, enhancing operational readiness, and fostering a culture rooted in service and professionalism.

Chief Young’s impact extends far beyond emergency response. He is widely respected for his mentorship of staff, helping shape the next generation of firefighters with integrity, discipline, and compassion. His commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in an impressive list of credentials:

  • Master Firefighter
  • Master Fire Instructor
  • Licensed Paramedic
  • Certified Fire Executive (CFE) – Texas Fire Chief’s Academy
  • Fire Service Chief Executive Officer (FSCEO) – Mays Business School, Texas A&M
  • Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences
    • Fire Service Administration with a concentration in Homeland Security
    • Texas A&M–San Antonio, Summa Cum Laude
  • Community Builder Award – Mt. Hiram Masonic Lodge #595

“On behalf of the City of Copperas Cove, I want to sincerely thank Fire Chief Gary Young for his 36 years of dedicated service to our community,” said City Manager Ryan Haverlah. “His leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public safety have left a lasting impact on the department and the citizens of Copperas Cove. Chief Young has been a trusted mentor and colleague, building strong regional and state partnerships, and his legacy of service will be remembered for years to come.”

To celebrate Chief Young’s extraordinary career, the Copperas Cove Fire Department will host a Retirement Reception on Friday, September 19th at 3pm at Fire Station 1 (415 S. Main Street). The public is invited to attend, share stories, and honor a man whose life’s work has helped shape the safety and spirit of Copperas Cove.

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