Fire Chief Craig Danczyk to retire

Vicksburg Fire Chief Craig Danczyk announced his retirement today. “I’ve climbed that mountain and now there are new mountains to climb,” said a reflective Craig Danczyk, 49.

“Personally, one of my proudest fire service accomplishments is working through the ranks during my 27-year career.” After 27 years with the Vicksburg Fire Department, he has done it all and worked in every position in the field and in administration, including Chief. Danczyk’s last day will be Aug. 31.

Craig Danczyk stands in front of students and reads to them. (Photo courtesy of VWSD)

Dancyzk joined the department on May 10, 1995, with 16 other individuals, five of whom are still with the department. “We had a lot of talent in that group and many have stayed in the fire service. I have a sister but I don’t have any brothers. These 16 fire service men are my brothers. We still get together on birthdays and share stories.”

“There are so many people to thank. The Board of Mayor and Aldermen have been nothing but supportive,” said Dancyzk. “There are the right people in place and it’s the right time for me to transition into private industry.” The Chief indicated he will be taking a position in the private industry here in Vicksburg. Just 2 weeks ago the department unveiled 2 new fire trucks that will serve the community for many years.

“One of my proudest moments is the collaboration to lower the fire rating to a Class 4. We made that milestone in October of 2018 which benefited property owners inside the city limits of Vicksburg,” said a proud Chief Danczyk.

Mississippi Fire Marshal Mike Chaney said of Danczyk, “He is one of the best fire chiefs in the south. I’ve known Craig for 30-plus years. He’s good and well respected in Mississippi among the fire chiefs. It is a loss for the municipal fire service but I am happy for Craig and his future.”

Danczyk is sworn in as Chief. (Photo by Keith Phillips)

Accolades

Warren County Fire Boss Jerry Briggs, who has worked closely with Danczyk for many years stated, “Craig Danczyk is one of the best and most respected Fire Chiefs in the region. It is a huge loss to the municipal fire service. His willingness to work with anyone to serve the citizens of Vicksburg and Warren County has improved the safety of our community. He was able to reduce the fire rating in Vicksburg and has always responded to any need the County fire service has had. He will be missed but the Warren County Fire Service looks forward to continuing the great relationship between our two departments with the next Chief.”

Mayor George Flaggs said, “I commend him on his career. His transformation in the last 6 or 7 years has served him well. In his time as chief, he has made some great decisions and was instrumental in getting our fire rating down. He’s on a career path and it’s understandable and I commend him for it. It is Vicksburg’s loss but we are honored to have had him for all those years.”

Vicksburg Fire Chief Craig Danczky donates a pint of blood and is happy about it. (Photo by David Day)

Chief Danczyk was featured in our “Those who keep us safe” series of stories. Click here for an in-depth look at the Chief’s career.