February 18, 2012
02/20/12 The last day on the job as Plymouth Fire Chief for Andy Metsker was marked with a gathering of city and county officials, fellow EMS and fire fighters , city and county police officers, retired firefighters , family and community members, -all of whom he calls friends.
Metsker is leaving the Fire Department where he started as a full-time firefighter in 2002 when Larry Starr retired and he took his place. He became chief nearly four years ago when newly elected Mayor Mark Senter asked him to accept the position of Chief.
During the farewell celebration, Metsker said, “All of those here are fantastic people and I love them all.” He added, “It’s been an honor to be a part of this special group.”
Although Metsker will no longer be chief, he does plan to reapply to be a volunteer fire fighter at some point. He has accepted a position with Gibson Insurance headquartered here in Plymouth as a Loss Prevention Consultant. The job will take him all over northern Indiana.
One of those especially close to Metsker is 29-year-veteran volunteer firefighter Art Jacobs. Jacobs said, “For us (volunteers/staff) he has been an awesome leader. His main focus has always been to keep us safe.” Jacob’s said Metsker’s focus extends to the entire community as well. He said, “He has looked after the public all the way around in both his work and volunteer service.”
Carol Anders Correspondent