Retirement and Promotions

First Deputy Steven Orlosky Retirement

May 8, 2008

First Deputy Chief Steven E. Orlosky announced his retirement effective June 20, 2008 after 28 years with the fire department. Orlosky began his career with the Reading Fire Department on March 17, 1980 as a firefighter on the C Platoon.

Chief Orlosky was first promoted to the rank of Training Lieutenant in 1988 and instructed the first group of cadets to enter the department since his own appointment in 1980. In 1990 he was promoted to the rank of Second Deputy on the B Platoon and in 1994 to the rank of First Deputy also on the B Platoon.

Chief Orlosky had previously announced his intentions to members of the "B" Platoon on May 2nd before revealing his plans to the rest of the department.

The Chief's last physical day of work will be the last day shift of the B Platoon on May 8, 2008.

Chief Orlosky's post retirement plans include spending more time with his family. He has also taken a position with Carpenter Technologies as a Health & Safety Specialist.

The Fire Department also announced today the personnel changes resulting from replacing Chief Orlosky. They will be effective on June 20, 2008.

Second Deputy Chief Kevin L. Kulp will be promoted to the rank of First Deputy and will replace Chief Orlosky on the B Platoon. Kulp currently is assigned to the A Platoon.

Replacing Chief Kulp on the A Platoon will be William I Stout Jr who will be promoted from Lieutenant. Stoudt is the current suppression Lieutenant on the B Platoon.

Promoted to Lieutenant on the B Platoon from the rank of Firefighter will be Brian L. Thorpe, the current crewman on Engine 3 on the D Platoon.

We wish Chief Orlosky a happy and healthy retirement and congratulate the other three members on their promotions.