The Director of the Salem Emergency Management Agency for the past 43 years signed off for the final time Tuesday afternoon.
Terry Mulvaney was honored at a reception in his owner at the Emergency Management Office Tuesday afternoon.
Mayor Nic Farley presented Mulvaney with a plaque of appreciation.
“Your remarkable journey is a testament to your exceptional character. Your dedication and service have left an indelible impact on Salem, quite frankly on all of Marion County. So on behalf of a grateful community, we say thank you. So please join me in celebrating the career of Terry Mulvaney, tireless community servant, stalwart leader, and above all just a damn good man.”
Salem Mayor Nic Farley (left) presents a Plaque of Appreciation to Terry Mulvaney on his retirement. (Photo by Bruce Kropp.)
Incoming Salem Emergency Management Agency Director Andrew Strong followed with a presentation of a display box filled with Mulvaney’s various badges over the years.
“Small towns are awesome. We saw in the last few months when tragedy hits, we all come together and do our thing. It takes a little coordination and directing and we have him to thank for that.”
Mulvaney in turn thanked the city managers and city councils he worked under but most of all the volunteers.
“We wouldn’t be what we are today without the current volunteers and all the past volunteers. They are what made the department what it is today. Thank you for all being here this evening. It’s been a pleasure. It is going to be so great to be able to say, “call Andrew”.
Mulvaney then signed off as EM11 for the final time and was recognized by Salem Police Dispatch.
“Director Mulvaney has been responsible for maintaining the emergency operations plan for the City of Salem and also coordinating the city’s response to mitigation to numerous natural disasters. Throughout the years, Director Mulvaney has worked with numerous neighboring and state agencies to grow a good working relationship and help plan for the unknown. EM11 the City of Salem thanks you for the countless hours and sleepless nights you have put in over the past 43 years. Thank you and enjoy your retirement.”
And with Mulvaney officially retired, Mayor Farley swore in Strong as the new Emergency Management Agency Director. Farley is confident on Strong’s ability to lead the department and he feels he will continue the great legacy Terry started.
Mulvaney’s career in emergency service actually extends even further. He started his career in 1969 with the Marion County Civil Defense and also served for 15 years on the Salem Fire Protection District.
Mayor Nic Farley (left to right) swears in Andrew Strong as new Emergency Management Agency Director while his mother Sheila Mulvaney and step-father Terry Mulvaney hold the Bible. (Photo by Bruce Kropp)
