The Branson Fire Chief has announced retirement after serving the area for 30 years. According to a City of Branson press release, Fire Chief Ted Martin plans to retire in April 2026 from the Branson Fire Rescue. The release states Martin joined the department in 1996 and later became the chief in 2012.
During time under Martin, the city says the department had one of the lowest fire loss records in the region. The chief also oversaw the addition of Fire Station #4, increased staffing, upgraded fire apparatus, and expanded the training and safety programs.
โServing the residents, visitors, and business of Branson has been one of the greatest honors of my life,โ Chief Martin said in the release. โOur departmentโs success is a reflection of the unwavering support from the Board of Aldermen, City Administration, and the Branson community. Together, weโve built a department that responds with skill, compassion, and pride.โ
Officials of Branson praised Martin for his service and for aiding the city for three decades. โOn behalf of the Board and the entire City, we thank Ted for his decades of service,โ Mayor Larry Milton said. โWe are excited to see the next chapter of his continued commitment and involvement in our City.โ
The chief and his wife, Kathy, who also plans to retire in 2026, plan to reside in Branson, hoping to serve the community. โBranson is home,โ Chief Martin explained. โKathy and I are excited for the next chapter and the chance to keep giving back to the community that has given so much to us.โ The City of Branson plans to celebrate Martinโs time in a special recognition event in early 2026.
