Wheeling honors retiring fire Lt. Greg Rubinkowski

The Wheeling village board Monday honored Wheeling Fire Department Lieutenant Greg Rubinkowski who is retiring after 32 years with the department.

Rubinkowski joined the Wheeling Fire Department as a firefighter in 1984. Throughout his time with the department, Rubinkowski earned certifications as an underwater rescue and recovery diver, hazardous materials first responder and airport firefighter, among other things.

Rubinkowski was promoted to lieutenant in 2010.

"He was a great asset to our community with his familiarity of the department and his knowledge," said Lt. Vito Lanciloti who has worked with Rubinkowski since 2001. "You just enjoyed being around him, and he always made the day go by smoothly."

Lanciloti added that it's rare for people to stay with the fire department for more than 30 years.

Wheeling Village President Dean Argiris proclaimed June 21, 2016 Gregory Rubinkowski Day in Wheeling.