Onset Fire Chief Howard Andersen will be retiring soon, and on Tuesday the Board of Selectmen took a minute to honor the chief, who has served on the department for 43 years.

"Chief Andersen has been a pillar in our village," said Selectman, and Onset resident, Steve  Holmes. "He's been a hero to many in Onset."

Holmes praised Andersen for his years of service. Andersen has been chief since 1997.

"Howard's a special guy," Holmes said, "and he'll be sorely missed."

A retirement party will be held for Andersen on September 8, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Wareham Lodge of Elks.