FDOT District Six Road Ranger Retires after 25 Years

Long-time Road Ranger Service Patrol, Mr. Leland DeBooy, is retiring after 25 years on the job. He started in 1995 when the program was just beginning. He played a big role in shaping it into what it is today and is revered by his peers for his mentorship and valuable contributions to the industry.

 

Mr. DeBooy began his career in District Four when the program was called the ‘FDOT Service Patrol.’ He was given formal training, a marked agency vehicle, and a mobile phone for the job. There were no traffic monitoring devices or Transportation Management Centers to assist with dispatching back then. He patrolled the highways looking for stranded motorists to assist with minor repairs and towing. He did this for several years while the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) expanded both the Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSM&O) and Road Ranger Programs in southeast Florida. Mr. DeBooy gained a wealth of experience during this time and rose in the ranks within his team. He later transitioned to District Six and was immediately promoted to lead trainer by his new employer after they recognized his knowledge and leadership skills. In this new role, Mr. DeBooy became a mentor to many of the new Road Rangers teaching them about the job and taking them under his wing. He flourished during this time and even became the official spokesperson for the Road Rangers during media events and press conferences.

 

Mr. DeBooy has been an exemplary member of the Road Ranger Service Patrol Program dedicating his entire career to serving the community and helping others in need. His selfless nature combined with his desire to empower his team allowed him to train many service patrols who are in the field today. His spirit will live on through his team, through the countless stranded motorists he assisted, and through FDOT who has appreciated his high level of customer service. His legacy will be felt for many years to come.