Honolulu Fire Department Lionel E. Camara Jr., who had served as acting chief for the department, is retiring, effective Dec. 30.

“I want to sincerely offer my deep appreciation and respect to Acting Chief Lionel Camera, Jr. on a truly stellar and distinguished career,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “On behalf of the people of the City and County of Honolulu, I want to offer my most heartfelt mahalo for 36 years of dedication, hard work and leadership in the Honolulu Fire Department.”

Camara — who comes from a family of firefighters, following his father’s footsteps — began his career with the department in 1986.

“As the son of retired fire chief Lionel Camara Sr., I have spent my entire life in the Honolulu Fire Department and made a career of almost 36 years in HFD. I grew up here,” said Camara Jr. “It is my honor and a cherished gift to have served alongside the men and women of the HFD and the people of the City and County of Honolulu.”

Sheldon K. Hao has been selected by the Honolulu Fire Commission as the 35th chief of the Honolulu Fire Department, effective Dec. 31.