The DeSoto Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department recently came under new leadership, and the City and Department are excited to welcome new Fire Chief John Booth.

Booth took over for outgoing Chief Tim Murray as of January 1st, though Murray will continue as a volunteer firefighter. The new Chief has been on the DeSoto Department for the last two years, and was voted by the other members of the crew to ascend to the leadership role. Booth tells Raccoon Valley Radio that he feels it’s important to give back to the community any way you can in this day and age, which is what inspires him to be a volunteer firefighter. He adds, it’s very rewarding to be able to help people on one of their worst days.

Booth points out that donations are critical for small town fire crews to function, as they are frequently short of funds and equipment can be expensive. As such, he asks the public to continue supporting the DeSoto Fire and Rescue Department in any way they can.