LOS ANGELES (CNS) — The Los Angeles County Fire Department held a retirement ceremony Tuesday for former Chief Daryl Osby, commemorating his nearly four-decade career in firefighting.

The event included Osby — the department’s first Black fire chief — ceremoniously hanging his turnout coat and helmet on the Wall of Honor at headquarters.

“I am truly grateful for the amazing 38 years I have spent protecting the lives, property and environment of the residents of Los Angeles County, especially the last 11, in which I had the honor of serving as fire chief of the premier fire department in the nation, if not the world,” Osby said in June, when he announced his decision to retire.

Osby was initially appointed to head the department by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in February 2011. He officially retired from his position on July 30.

“Day after day, we answered the call of those experiencing the worst day of their lives, whether they were in need of a lifesaving rescue, medical treatment or just a helping hand,” Osby said in June.

“It is that unwavering commitment that inspired me to come in to work every day and makes it so difficult to say goodbye. It was truly an honor to be your fire chief.”

The retirement celebration and ceremony was originally planned for late July, but was postponed. No reason was given for the postponement.