Michael Freeman will end 21-year tenure as fire chief.

The man in charge of the Los Angeles County Fire Department is retiring, according to the department’s website. P. Michael Freeman, who held the post of fire chief for nearly 21 years, says he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve the people of Los Angeles County, alongside the most unselfish, caring, and courageous men and women of the Department,” said Freeman in a letter to the County board of supervisors. “There were many challenges, but meeting them brought a great deal of satisfaction. It has truly been an opportunity of a lifetime, and now I am looking forward to spending more time with family and on personal pursuits.”

Chief Freeman’s retirement will take effect in March 2010, and it will make him the second longest serving chief in the department’s history. The Los Angeles County Fire department is charged with watching over 3.8 million residents and 2,305 square miles.

Santa Clarita is one of the areas under LA County Fire’s jurisdiction.