After 16 years as chief of the Des Moines Fire Department, John TeKippe has announced his retirement effective Dec. 22. After serving in the United States Navy, TeKippe began his career as a firefighter with the West Des Moines Fire Department. In 1996, he joined the Des Moines Fire Department working his way from firefighter to captain before becoming fire chief in 2009. “For decades, Chief TeKippe has worked tirelessly to advance the Des Moines Fire Department with 21st century solutions to improve fire and medical services for the residents of Des Moines,” City Manager Scott Sanders said in a prepared statement. “The differences in how DMFD trains, treats and fights fires bring immense value to the safety and wellbeing of our residents across the Des Moines community.” The city is launching a national search to look for Des Moines’ next fire chief, a news release said.