DES MOINES, Iowa —

Des Moines fire Chief John TeKippe has announced his retirement after leading the state's largest fire department for 16 years. His last day will be Dec. 22.

TeKippe, who has been eligible for retirement for three years, says he now feels confident in the department's leadership and believes it is the right time to step away.

"New leadership is ready and they're engaged, and it's their ship to sail," TeKippe told KCCI in an exclusive video.

TeKippe began his career in Des Moines as a firefighter in 1996 after serving in the Navy and working as a firefighter in West Des Moines. He served as captain and union president before being appointed fire chief in 2009. He credits his predecessor, Phil Vorlander, with preparing him for the challenges of the role, recalling Vorl

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