Cherokee County
Fire & Emergency Services
Fire & Emergency Services
Surrounded by family, colleagues, and community members, Deputy Chief Shane West was honored today in a heartfelt retirement ceremony at the Cherokee County Fire Training Complex in Holly Springs. After three decades of dedicated service and leadership, Chief West officially retires from Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, leaving behind a powerful legacy and a profound impact on the department and the citizens he served.
Chief West began his fire service career in 1995. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, earning the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him. In 2021, he was promoted to Deputy Chief of Operations, a role in which he provided strategic leadership, operational oversight, and guidance. Most recently, he served as Deputy Chief of Support Services, overseeing the training and logistics divisions as well as other critical infrastructure that keep the department running smoothly.
Chief West, a licensed Paramedic and a Georgia Smoke Diver—one of the most physically and mentally demanding training programs in the fire service—was known for his grit, integrity, and tireless dedication to excellence. Throughout his career, he mentored countless firefighters, many of whom credit their growth and success to his steady leadership.
Today’s ceremony was a moving tribute, attended by hundreds who gathered to celebrate his career, share stories, and express gratitude for his impact. In recognition of his retirement, Chief West was presented with several commemorative gifts, including a plaque for his fire helmet and a ceremonial fire axe—a traditional symbol of honor in the fire service—commemorating his 30 years of service.
Fire Chief Eddie Robinson spoke emotionally about Chief West’s departure, stating:"Deputy Chief Shane West has been the kind of leader every fire department hopes for—steady under pressure and deeply compassionate in service to others. The void he leaves behind will be felt not just within these walls, but across every station and life he’s touched. His legacy will live on through the generations of firefighters he’s mentored and the countless lives they will continue to save. Shane didn’t just serve Cherokee County, he shaped it."
With Chief West’s retirement, Deputy Chief Kevin Lanier, who currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Operations, will be stepping into the role of Deputy Chief of Support Services to ensure continued excellence and leadership in the department’s support divisions.
As Deputy Chief Shane West embarks on his well-earned retirement, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services salutes his extraordinary career and thanks him for 30 years of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to public safety.
