Arlington County's Ben Barksdale to be Lt. Colonel in Prince George's County. Emails from both chiefs.

Congratulations to Arlington County Fire Department Assistant Chief Ben Barksdale who will take a job across the Potomac River with the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department on June 19. Below are emails sent from the chiefs of both departments. 

From Chief Jim Schwartz:

All Members:

This message is to announce that Assistant Chief Ben Barksdale has accepted a position as Lt. Colonel with the Prince Georges County Fire Department.  This is a deputy chief position with a larger department that will present new opportunities for Ben.  Through years of hard work and by constantly taking on new challenges Ben has prepared himself well.  While this is a huge loss for Arlington, it is a great opportunity for Ben and his family.

Ben's last day with Arlington will be in mid-June and we will let you know when the specifics are ironed out.  In the meantime please join me in congratulating Chief Barksdale on a major career accomplishment and wish him well in his new endeavor.

Jim Schwartz, Chief
Arlington County Fire Department

From Chief Marc Bashoor:

I am pleased to announce that Benjamin Barksdale will join the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department as a Lieutenant Colonel, effective June 19, 2011.  Ben has worked for the Arlington County Fire Department for 24 years, currently serving as an Assistant Chief.  Ben will work with Lieutenant Colonel Angela Peden in Administrative Services, until her retirement effective July 31, 2011.

In the coming weeks, Ben will be meeting with staff and visiting facilities.  Please join me welcoming Ben to our Fire/EMS family.  Additional information, including a press release, will be forthcoming.