CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade is pleased to announce the appointment of two distinguished members within the Corpus Christi Fire Department (CCFD) to senior leadership roles.

Assistant Chief Doug Matthijetz has been appointed as Deputy Fire Chief. Chief Matthijetz is a 33-year veteran of CCFD. Chief Matthijetz most recently served as the Assistant Chief of the Support Services Division. Throughout his tenure with CCFD, Chief Matthijetz has overseen critical areas such as training, facilities, recruiting, hiring, and risk management.

Battalion Chief Billy Belyeu has been appointed as Assistant Fire Chief. Chief Belyeu is a 17-year veteran of CCFD. Chief Belyeu most recently served as a Battalion Chief and as the Assistant Director of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Throughout his tenure with CCFD, Chief Belyeu has led many key initiatives, including the integration of a telehealth communications platform, updating EMS fees, and establishing a charitable care policy.

Chief Belyeu's appointment is historic, as he becomes the first African American Assistant Chief in the storied history of the Corpus Christi Fire Department.

Both of these appointments reflect the commitment of the Corpus Christi Fire Department to excellence in leadership and service to the community.

"These two strong, professional leaders will undoubtedly enhance our firefighting capabilities and contribute to the overall safety of our community,” said City Manager Peter Zanoni. “It further fortifies our commitment to effective fire service leadership and operations."