5 years later, Chief Page’s influence lives on

Over the course of a lifetime, each us will experience events or meet certain individuals that leave an indelible mark in our memory—a lasting impression that changes our lives. In some cases, the memories of these events and/or people bring about great sadness; for others, they become influential experiences that set the course of their careers.

For me, that event occurred on May 28, 1977. It was a warm summer evening in the small town of Wilder, Ky.; darkness was beginning to set in as our street version of the World Series extended into extra innings. Apart from the occasional interruption of our neighbors driving up and down the street through our Wiffle ball field, the game was our only focus.

Around 8:30 p.m., the howl of the house sirens summoning the local volunteer firefighters began to fill the night. Our game came to a rapid conclusion as we watched the taillights of my dad’s truck race off to the firehouse just a mile down the road.

As the commotion in the neighborhood began to escalate, I can remember watching my neighbor, a retired firefighter from General Electric, digging through his garage in search of his old turnouts as he prepared to respond. There was a fire at the Beverly Hills Supper Club, and an “all call” had been broadcast throughout the county.

Over the next few hours, I sat with my mom on our back porch as we watched the glow of the distant skyline intensify. Our fear was eventually replaced with sadness as the voice of TV anchorman Nick Clooney reported the details of the raging fire. All told, 165 lives were lost that night. The Beverly Hills Supper Club Fire would become the third deadliest nightclub fire in U.S. history.

As one might imagine, this event left me with one of those indelible marks. But at the time, I had no idea that what I was watching would play such a critical role in the profession I would later pursue.

Just over 25 years later, I was in Los Angeles doing a presentation at the “East Meets West” Firefighter Safety & Survival Symposium when a man whom I quickly recognized as Chief James O. Page came up to me and introduced himself. Although our conversation was short, I can recall the event like it was yesterday.

Jim had long been recognized as one of the most influential figures in the fire service, and I had read his books and followed much of his career through his articles and presentations. He needed no introduction; his name was well known and his accomplishments far reaching.

As the founding publisher of FireRescue magazine and the father of modern EMS in the fire service, Jim’s 40-plus years of dedicated service had influenced thousands of firefighters throughout the country, myself included.

Jim’s dedication, leadership and vision inspired countless men and women to pursue the fire service as their chosen profession. From his role as a technical advisor for the famed TV series “EMERGENCY” to his many books, articles and presentations, Jim stood as beacon of progression for the advancement of EMS within the fire service.

Sadly, 5 years ago this month, the fire service lost one of its most accomplished leaders when Jim died suddenly. Like any great leader, his career accomplishments continue to stand the test of time and provide guidance and tutelage to a whole new generation of firefighters.

Jim truly believed in FireRescue magazine’s “Read it today, use it tomorrow” slogan This simple yet poignant statement exemplifies his relentless passion to educate and train firefighters with the intention of improving the services they provide on the streets every day.

As seasoned or aspiring firefighters and fire officers, each us will be influenced by countless individuals and events throughout the course of our careers. Long-lasting impressions will be made by the actions and/or inactions of our leadership, dedication and service. Let us all vow to make our lasting impression one of safety, professional development and the continued quest to improve the fire service.

Today, I continue my career in the fire service having been influenced by the tragic events of May 28, 1977, but also inspired by an icon of our profession, Chief Jim Page.

The lessons shared in these and future pages of FireRescue magazine will forever serve as an indelible mark in the history of the fire service, signifying Jim’s ongoing effort to improve our proud profession and the men and women who fill the ranks today and in the future.

Thanks for the lasting impression, Jim. You’ll never be forgotten.

Timothy E. Sendelbach is a 24 – year student and educator of the fire & emergency services currently serving as Editor-in-Chief for FIRERESCUE Magazine and President of TES² Training & Education Services. Tim is also the immediate past president of the International Society of Fire Services Instructors. (ISFSI).