Kauai Sun

--Chief Michael Gibson assumes command of Kaua‘i Fire Department--

LĪHU‘E – Fire Chief Michael Gibson assumed command of the Kaua‘i Fire Department on Friday, June 24, in a Change of Command ceremony held at the Līhu‘e Civic Center’s Mo‘ikeha Rotunda. 

“On behalf of the Kaua‘i Fire Commission, I extend our sincere support and appreciation to Chief Goble and Chief Gibson for together laying a solid foundation of goals and objectives for the Kaua‘i Fire Department that will continue under Chief Gibson’s leadership,” said Fire Commission Chair Chad Pacheco. “We look forward to seeing continued growth and development of the department in its commitment to preserving and protecting the residents and communities of the County of Kaua‘i.”

Following the announcement of Fire Chief Steven Goble’s resignation, which took effect June 23, the Kaua‘i Fire Commission held a special meeting on June 16, where the commission voted unanimously for Deputy Chief Gibson to take the helm.

“I am forever grateful for my time here as the Chief of the Kaua‘i Fire Department. This is a special place with special people, and working alongside the devoted members of the department has been an inspiration,” said Chief Goble. “In our short time together, I feel we have helped to make the community safer and stronger. The department is in good hands with Chief Gibson and I am confident that Kaua‘i Fire and Ocean Safety will continue to thrive and be an example of service.”

Friday’s ceremony began with welcoming remarks by retired Assistant Fire Chief Solomon Kanoho, followed by the presenting of colors by the KFD Honor Guard. The National Anthem and Hawai‘i Pono‘i was performed by Malialani Kelekoma, followed by an invocation by Kahu Ipo Kahaunaele. Guest speakers included Chief Goble and Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami. 

“We are grateful to the Fire Commission for their quick action to appoint a new fire chief,” said Mayor Kawakami. “I am confident Chief Gibson will lead our Kaua‘i Fire Department and Ocean Safety Bureau with humility and aloha, into the next level of excellence in service. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership together, working in our shared mission to protect and keep the people of Kaua‘i safe.” 

The Honorable Judge Randal G. Valenciano performed the swearing-in of the oath of office, followed by the ceremonial pinning of the badge presented to Chief Gibson by his wife, Michelle. The ceremony concluded with remarks from Chief Gibson.

“During the past two years of residence on Kaua‘i, I have come to deeply embrace the love for the land, its people, and the treasured history of the island and culture,” said Chief Gibson. “I’ve had many great conversations with personnel from all levels of experience, which has shown me that our associates and the community care passionately about Kaua‘i and its people, and I will do my best to continue to build upon the successes that already make the Kaua‘i Fire Department exceptional. I’d like to thank Chief Goble, the Kaua‘i Fire Commission, and all of our personnel, for affording me this opportunity to serve and protect our community together.”

Chief Gibson retired as Battalion Chief in 2017 from the City of Henderson Fire Department after serving for over 26 years in the department. He began employment with the County of Kaua‘i in October 2020 serving as a program manager for the Kaua‘i Fire Department, supporting the fire chief and command staff in a variety of administrative assignments. He was promoted to Deputy Chief in January 2021, and through his current tenure has since formed relationships that has helped build a solid foundation within the department’s leadership and line personnel.

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