HANGING UP THIS HELMET

After more than 39 years with the agency, Jennings Fire Department Chief Hulin Theriot retired Wednesday.

Theriot’s firefighting career began Sept. 15, 1979. He has served as the department’s chief since May 2007. The department hosted a retirement luncheon in his honor Monday, where he was presented with a plaque by his colleagues.

He said the most rewarding aspect of his time with the agency has been helping the people of the community.

“The fire business and working with public employees has its own sets of challenges but I’ve really enjoyed my years with the department,” he said. “Like anyone else, we always wish we made more money but I, along with my family, always managed to succeed. Everything has worked out.”

Although Theriot is retiring, he said he is not ready to completely walk away from something that has been a part of life for almost 40 years.

“I still have plans to volunteer with the department,” said Theriot. “I will still be a part of it all.”

He has not made many plans at the moment for what he will do with all of his time upon retirement.

“I just want to take some time off work and just relax,” said Theriot. “I want to do some camping and fishing and resting.”

"I still have plans to volunteer with the department. I will still be a part of it all.”
– JFD Chief Hulin Theriot

Retired Jennings firefighter Bobby Vasseur will act as interim fire chief for the next several months until a new leader is appointed. Theriot said Vasseur would serve the city well in the coming months just as he did throughout his career.

“Including his time as a volunteer firefighter and paid time, Vasseur has over 40 years of experience with the fire department,” said Theriot.

The fire chief said the mayor ultimately appoints the fire chief’s position, which is a civil service position. The city will advertise for applicants who meet the qualifications set forth by the board and administration.

“After the application process, the state examiner’s office will issue a written test. This test must be passed before the applicant can be added to an eligibility list,” Theriot explained. “Then the mayor will make his decision after reviewing the people who have qualified for the position.”

While he is hanging up his helmet, Theriot said the fire department will always remain a part of him and that he has appreciated the opportunity to serve his community for nearly four decades.