Bend, OR – Bend Fire Captain Neil Pedersen retired today after 27 years of serving the Bend community.

Pedersen began his career in a Fire Science program in the valley before pursuing Paramedic certification at Central Oregon Community College in 1996.

While attending school, he volunteered with Bend Fire and, in 1998, was hired by La Pine Fire as a firefighter/paramedic. He joined Bend Fire & Rescue in 1999.

Widely respected by his colleagues, Captain Pedersen was known for leading by example and being the first to step up when duty called.

Bend Fire officials expressed their gratitude for Pedersen’s years of service and leadership, wishing him well in his retirement.