Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Paid

Job Function

Retired

Years in Fire/EMS:

33

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Sierra Vista Fire Department

Years With Department/Agency

26

About Me:

I served 19 months in Vietnam with the 5th Special Forces Group in the Mekong Delta.
I started my fire service career in Baltimore County, Maryland, working at Station #15 from 1974 to 1981. I then moved west and joined the Sierra Vista, AZ Fire Department. I started there in April 1981, rose up through the ranks to become Fire Chief in November 1993, and retired in November 2007.
I was fortunate enough in 2005 to be the 28th member elected to the Arizona Fire Service Hall of Fame.

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

To get out of the steel mill in Baltimore, where I was attending school part time on the G.I Bill

Why I Love Fire/EMS

I believe it is a calling, not just a job.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Safety...much of it within our own power to control.