Staff Writer

Tony Gregory says he knew he had found his life's calling when he joined the Union Public Safety Department as a reserve officer 25 years ago.

“It got in my blood and I loved it,” he said. “I decided that was what I wanted to do.”

The career Gregory has enjoyed recently took a new turn when he was promoted to captain and City of Union fire commander. He takes the place of Lt. Phil Moore, who retired in 2007.

“I have been privileged to work with some good guys and the past fire commanders who did a good job,” Gregory said. “I just want to take what they have built and continue to build on it and give the public the protection they need. I think new policies and procedures we have in place will help us operate efficiently and safely.”

Gregory grew up in Union, a son of Gerald and Shirley Gregory. He and his wife, Sue, have two children - Ellen, 16, and Matt, 12.

Now 48, he was working with the Union County School District when he joined the police reserves in February of 1983. He was hired full time as an officer on April 14, 1985 by Russell Roark, who then was chief.

Before becoming fire commander, Gregory was a lieutenant who supervised support services, including training, special events and criminal records. As fire commander, he will oversee fire department operations and will continue to be involved in police as well as fire training.

Gregory said as fire commander he particularly thanks the departments volunteer firefighters.

“We appreciate what those guys do,” he said. “They make our job easier and safer and give us more manpower.”

Another duty Gregory has is to perform fire inspections - particularly important at a time when the city is experiencing expansion and growth on the Duncan By-Pass.

“We have a lot coming on and we're looking forward to it,” he said. “I hope we can continue to provide the very best service to the public we can.”

Chief Sam White of the Union Public Safety Department said Gregory's experience as a police officer and training supervisor are a good basis for the fire commander position.

“We're hoping he will use those skills and shift gears and we'll be putting more focus on that area,” he said. “He'll also continue to support police training until another trainer is hired.”