Congratulations to Firefighter Tim O'Brien on his retirement after more than 39 years of combined service to the City of Reading. O'Brien first served as a volunteer firefighter joining the Neversink Fire Company Engine 3 in Fall of 1978. Tim was officially hired by the department in August of 1992. After completing several months of training FF O'Brien was assigned to the D platoon. After 2 years of jumping on the D platoon, Tim took an assignment on the A platoon as Engine 9's firefighter in 1994. For years "Timmy-O" worked hose lines at most of the jobs on A platoon. In January of 2011, O'Brien slid across the rig to the driver's seat. Tim spent more than 23 years working out of the 9th and Marion House on the A platoon. Tim's distinct voice and mannerisms were a staple at Engine 9 and Ladder 3's quarters for many years. He enjoyed getting harassed as much as harassing others. Tim plans on taking it easy in his retirement and continuing to work his successful electrical business.

Photos from Tim's Last Tour

Photos from Tim's surprise breakfast

Tim answered some questions for us in the hope that a new firefighter or officer could capture some of his experience.