After 35 years of dutiful service and hard work the station commander of the Strand Fire Station has decided to lay down his “hat”.
A special ceremony was held for Leroy Cloete at the fire station in George Street on Monday (31 July).
Peers, family members and colleagues heaped nothing but praise on the outgoing firefighting stalwart, with words such as “a true leader” and “someone who stands by his laurels” expressed.
Clinton Manuel, Fire Chief at the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service, started off his speech by asking anyone to raise his or her hand if they ever had a difference of opinion with Cloete, and no-one did. “He is a man with standards, very high standards. I met him in 1988. Through the years he has always been a dedicated person,” shared Manuel. “If you have had a difference of opinion with Leroy then you have never worked with him. Leroy would stand his ground if he knew he was correct. He would not run a firefighter down if he knew he had done no wrong. Thank you for being the person you are. Through the years you have not changed one bit.”
Manuel mentioned he had pleaded with Cloete to stay on for another two years, but he respectfully declined saying he wished to retire and spend quality time with his family.
The commander trained many a youngster, including those who are now top firefighters at their various fire stations.
Cheslyn Benn, a senior firefighter at Strand Fire Station who handed Cloete a shield of appreciation from the City of Cape Town for his loyal dedicated service, described Cloete as a true stalwart and a gentleman.
Manuel added: “He is a person of principle. I am proud to be associated with you. You were a mentor to me. He was at the heart of the Fire Service, right at the forefront.”
