“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend and colleague, Chief Russell Brooks.Chief Brooks was a true leader in the fire service, the founder of the Utica Fire Academy, established EMS services for the City of Utica, and was a true mentor for so many in our community and in the fire, service including myself. He also utilized his dedicated faith in God to guide him every day. My family and I express our deepest sympathy to his devoted wife, Marianne, the entire Brooks family, his fire service family, and the members of the numerous community organizations that the chief served with.As the chief always would say, Front and Center!Chief you will be always remembered and respected.”