WPBFD History

named to replace Kitzinger on December 25, 1972. Reese had chosen the fire prevention field earlier in his career and worked to learn as much as he could under his former mentor. The city was undergoing drastic changes, with rapid development. Much of the new construction was in the form of high rise buildings which required strict plans review and code enforcement to assure fire safety. Reese would prove to be exactly what was needed at this time of change. Robert E. Milkins, the first full time training officer for the department, applied for retirement on October 10, 1972. He had served twenty-five years and left holding the rank of assistant chief. His dedicated training efforts would have a lasting effect on the department for decades to come. Milkins had prepared the department for his retirement by making sure a trained instructor was ready to step into his position. Captain James L. Bell had spent three years with the sage Milkins, obtaining the necessary certifications and learning through experience. Bell's ap- pointment to Chief of Training was effective on Decem- ber 25, 1972. Captain Palmlee N. Howe was added to the Training Division as the Assistant Training Officer.

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