DEMA Director Jamie Turner retires

Dover, Del. — Lewis D. Schiliro, Delaware’s Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security announced the retirement of Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) Director Jamie Turner.

Abel J. Schall,  Hole Hook and Ladder Fire Chief was appointed as his successor.

“Jamie Turner has dedicated much of his life to the service of our citizens,” said Gov. Jack Markell. “His impact on our public safety community extends beyond his years as DEMA director. He has touched hundreds of firefighters as an instructor at the Delaware Fire School and as DVFA Executive Secretary. He has served his community of Clayton as a member of the fire department since 1966. The citizens of our great State are forever grateful for his commitment to public safety.”

Schall began his public safety service more than 20 years ago as a volunteer with the Kane County Office of Emergency Management in Illinois. He continued his public safety service when he relocated to Delaware and joined the Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder Company in 1999. He is currently Chief of Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder and has served at the helm since 2013.

In addition to his role as Aetna fire chief, Schall has been employed by Bank of America since 1998. He will begin at DEMA on Aug. 24.