URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — People in Urbana honored Fire Battalion Chief Trent Short after 26 years of service, with Mayor DeShawn Williams proclaiming Saturday as Trent Short Day in the city.

For almost three decades, Short worked his way through every rank but chief, following in his father’s footsteps. Saturday marked the end of 45 straight years of his family working for the fire department.

Short was also the Union President for 10 years, and officials said his legacy will leave a lasting impact on the department.

“Because of that work, this department is stronger today,” said Fire Chief Demond Dade. “[Short] helped change the way the city and department work together to this day, and that has benefitted firefighters and the citizens we swore an oath to serve.”

Short was presented with his helmet, axe and more as his family, fellow firefighters and city officials wished him the best in retirement.