Captain Brett Ortagus with Ocala Fire Rescue recently received a service award in recognition of his 25 years of service.
Mayor Kent Guinn and City Manager Sandra Wilson presented the award to Ortagus during the Ocala City Council regular meeting on Tuesday.
In 1997, Ortagus kicked off his career at OFR as a firefighter and he never looked back. Wilson stated that throughout Ortagus’ career, he has taken pride in providing outstanding public service.
Ortagus has participated in the department’s Special Operations team for the better part of two decades. During the past five months, he has worked as one of three inspectors for OFR’s Fire Prevention division where he focuses on school, commercial, and residential inspections.
His knowledge of hazardous materials, urban search and rescue, and rope rescue, among others, has led to several deployments as a member of the State of Florida’s Task Force 8.
When Ortagus is off-duty, he enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with his family.
Guinn thanked Ortagus for his years of service to the city. The mayor added that he looks forward to five more years of service, and Ortagus responded by saying, “Absolutely.”
Ocala Fire Rescue stated on its Facebook webpage, “For his 25 years of service, it’s our pleasure to congratulate Captain Brett Ortagus.”