West Manatee, FL - After an illustrious 43-year career in the fire service, Chief Thomas Sousa has retired, effective October 16, 2019. He began his career in 1976 as a firefighter/paramedic with Longboat Key Fire Rescue (LBKFR), and rose through the ranks before retiring as Deputy Chief in 2006, serving under current Florida State Fire Marshal Julius Halas. Two weeks after retiring from LBKFR, Sousa joined West Manatee Fire Rescue District (WMFRD) as training captain, and has served as Chief of the department since November of 2014.

Sousa recognizes and appreciates the influence many have made upon him throughout his career, but named two specifically; “Fire Chief Bob Bullard for giving me a job and inspiring me to be the best as a Firefighter/Paramedic, and Fire Chief Julius Halas for mentoring me as I climbed through the ranks.”

When asked what he’s most proud of during his storied career, Sousa stated, “Early in my career (1977), I played a part in the launching of Fire Rescue ALS Transport Service for Longboat Key, which at the time was one of the few Fire Rescue agencies delivering EMS transport services, definitely the smallest. Later in my career, I was instrumental in the establishment of the first ALS Non-Transport engines in Manatee County.”

In October 2019, Sousa exchanged his Chief's helmet for a sailing captains’ hat and led a crew of merry men on a transatlantic voyage along the high seas, sailing from Spain to Miami. In May of 2020, his first mate and beautiful wife, Annette Sousa, will join him, as she too will retire from an equally honorable and celebrated career as a public-school teacher. Together, they will continue their lifelong adventure.

Chief Sousa, West Manatee Fire Rescue District wishes to thank you for your service and many contributions to our community. We wish you and Annette many years of adventure in retirement. Enjoy your freedom and remember, “That’s what a ship is, you know-it’s not just a keel and a hull and a deck and sails, that’s what a ship needs. But what a ship is, really is, is freedom.” (Capt. Jack Sparrow)