READING, Pa. – Reading’s 22nd fire chief took his oath of office Monday night at the Reading City Council Committee of the Whole meeting.
Council voted to appoint Chief Robert Leonard II in late March at an annual salary of $120,000.
Leonard came to Reading after leaving the position of assistant fire chief at Prince George’s County Fire/EMS, Maryland.
Leonard thanked City Council for giving him the opportunity to serve as fire chief.
“It’s truly been and honor and a preference,” Leonard said. “Since I started on April 1st, I wake up every morning to remind myself, ‘You’re living your dream of being a fire chief. Don’t mess this up,’ as my dad would say. It’s a simple thought, but it keeps me grounded and reminds me of the right responsibility that comes with this position.”
“I also want to thank the officers, firefighters for welcoming me with open arms,” Leonard said. “Whether it’s inviting me to lunch and dinners or even having a little fun at my expense during station business, you made me feel like a part of this city.”
“This city has embraced me as one of their own,” he said. “I have been humbled by the warmth and through the encouragement this community has shown me. As I continue in this role, my priority is to build a trust with the men and women of this great department. Trust is earned through honesty, consistency, and showing up for one another every day.”
Mayor Eddie Moran thanked the Leonard and congratulated him for being sworn in as chief.
“And of course, all firefighters, thank you for your service,” Moran said.
“Thank you once again, and thank you to your family for their support and your former department for coming and supporting you as well,” Moran said to Leonard. “On behalf of all of us and City Council, we’re so glad you’re here with us. We thank you for your confidence in our city, and we look forward to working with you.”
Leonard replaces former Chief James Stoudt, who retired earlier this year after more than three decades with the department.