St. Thomas Fire Chief David Gregory Announces Retirement

The City of St. Thomas has announced that Fire Chief David Gregory will retire in May 2027 following more than three decades of dedicated service to the community.

Born and raised in St. Thomas, Chief Gregory will retire after nearly 34 years with the City. Since joining the St. Thomas Fire Department as a probationary firefighter in 1994, he has progressed through the ranks, serving as a firefighter for approximately 20 years before becoming a Captain and later Acting Platoon Chief. In 2020, he transitioned into Fire Prevention, was appointed Deputy Chief in January 2022, and became Fire Chief in March 2022.

Reflecting on his career, Chief Gregory said serving the community that shaped him has been a dream come true.

"It's been like winning the lottery," said Chief Gregory. "I grew up in the courthouse district, not far from the original fire station, and to spend my entire career serving the community where I was born and raised has been incredibly rewarding."

Throughout his career, Chief Gregory has helped guide the department through significant growth and change while maintaining a strong commitment to public safety, firefighter wellness, and community engagement.

Mayor Joe Preston thanked Chief Gregory for his years of leadership and service to the City.

"On behalf of City Council and the residents of St. Thomas, I want to thank Chief Gregory for his outstanding service and dedication to our community," said Mayor Joe Preston. "For more than three decades, David has demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to public safety. His leadership has helped strengthen the Fire Department and ensure residents continue to receive exceptional service. We wish him and his family nothing but the best in retirement."

Looking ahead to retirement, Chief Gregory said he is most excited about spending more time with family and focusing on his farm business.

"I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and dedicating more time to our farm at home," he said. "At the same time, I leave knowing the City is in great hands. Council, our City Manager, Directors, and staff continue to move St. Thomas forward, and I have every confidence that the next Fire Chief will build on the momentum we've created together."

The City will begin recruitment efforts in the coming months to identify the next leader of the St. Thomas Fire Department and ensure a smooth transition ahead of Chief Gregory's retirement in May 2027.