Fire Dawg concludes 26-year career at Dover AFB

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  • By 512th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE. Del --  Chief Master Sergeant Michael Baize, 512th Civil Engineer Squadron fire chief, officially retired during a ceremony held at Firehouse 2 here, Aug. 4.
 
Beginning his career in the Air National Guard in 1982, he transferred to the Air Force Reserve Command in 1986 as a 512th CES fire apprentice. During his time as a reservist, Baize encountered two military activations, supporting both Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

"Chief Baize exemplifies CE leadership all the way," said Lt. Col. Richard Freewalt, 512th CES commander, who officiated the event. "We will miss him, but we will carry on. Another page in our unit's history is turning." 

Baize was recognized with multiple awards and decorations by the squadron commander before acknowledging the significant roll his wife and parents played in his military career. The ceremony was attended by family, friends and fellow Airmen.

"I worked with some really great people," said Baize. "I will miss this fire department; it truly is the best in the Air Force Reserve Command."

Members of the Reserve fire department continued the celebration by hosting a social hour, allowing both military and civilian guests time to socialize and reflect on the fire chief's career.

"Remember to stop by and visit," Freewalt remarked to Biaze during the event. "You'll always be family to us."