On July 31, 2021 at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa, FL, Chip retired from the Hillsborough County Florida Fire Department having served as a Firefighter/Paramedic since leaving the Marine Corps.

GySgt Chip Shields, USMC is a Beirut Veteran and survivor of the BLT bombing on October 23, 1983. Chip makes it a priority to attend the annual remembrances in Jacksonville, NC and is known by many veterans and families for his warm smile and spirit. 

Chip epitomizes BVA motto, "The First Duty is to Remember". The BVA congratulates Chip on his retirement and continued service to our country.