Countryside fire captain leaves with a lot of memories

It's tough leaving the greatest job in the world.

But after 36 years of hard work that put three kids through college, the lure of a full night's sleep became increasingly attractive to Countryside Fire Protection District Capt. Mike Hodges, who retired Sunday

"I couldn't have asked for a better job, a better situation or a better place to work," said Hodges, 54.

He was 18 when he joined the department in October 1971. He had been working the night shift at a gas station his father owned, and befriended a paid-on-call firefighter who lived down the street. Hodges was brought on full time Aug. 1, 1976.

A lot has changed in the protection district since then.

When Hodges was hired, the district -- which now covers parts of Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Vernon Hills and Mundelein -- handled 280 calls a year, he said. Today, that number is about 3,800 calls annually.

Time has also brought better equipment, more education and safer rigs, he said.

And the years have left Hodges with a lot of memories.

There were a few big firsts -- the first time he delivered a baby and the first time he served as incident command on a structure fire.

Still, he said, it's tough to name one central point in his career.

"I was fortunate enough to be on the ground floor of this place when it started. It's been fantastic," he said. "I've had a great career. Who can have a better job than a fireman?"

Hodges credits his wife of 32 years, Colleen, for being so supportive.

"She's been a huge part of this, just allowing me to live this great job and lifestyle," he said.

They met one Easter when Colleen came to the old fire station with her sister, who is married to a firefighter.

Hodges doesn't have any big plans for retirement, but it doesn't bother him.

"I'll still be around. We have a lot of good friends in the department. I just don't want to get up in the middle of the night anymore," he said with a chuckle.

At 8:05 a.m. Dec. 9, firefighters put out a final alarm call in honor of Hodges.

The familiar tones sounded, but instead of a rescue call, the dispatcher said, "From the Countryside Fire District fire department. Captain Michael Hodges, badge number 54, this is your final alarm from 600 N. Deerpath, Countryside Station number 2. All the Countryside firefighters, members and citizens of the fire protection district would like to thank you for your 36 years of dedication and service. Thanks, Mike."