After 38 years of serving the Austintown Fire Department, Fire Chief Andy Frost plans to retire at the end of July.

Frost stepped into the role of chief back in 2012, taking the reigns from his father. He started with the department in 1986 and eventually became full-time in 1992.

During Monday's township meeting, trustees honored Frost with a proclamation for his nearly four decades of commitment to the fire department.

"This is overwhelming," Chief Frost said to 21 News. "It truly is overwhelming. I don't know what to feel. I loved this job very much and to not be doing it in a few weeks will be very strange."

Trustees, department leaders, and former trustees acknowledged Frost's commitment to the township and the empathy he shows his staff and residents.  

"I am so proud of the fire department," Chief Frost added. "I'm so proud of the people there. I can leave happy because it's in good hands. We have great leadership, from lieutenants to captains. I'm going to miss it. I will miss my friends but it's time to move on."

Frost was joined by his wife, children, and granddaughter as he was recognized by the township Monday. 

"Thank you all, I appreciate everything," Frost said emotionally to the crowd. "Thank you to my family and friends."

Frost's father served with AFD for 46 years before he retired. Assistant Fire Chief David Schertzer will pick up Frost's duties when he retires at the end of the month.

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https://www.wfmj.com/story/20314910/new-austintown-fire-chief-sworn-in