Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Paid, Emergency Management

Job Function

Fire Chief / Chief of Department, EMS Chief / Division Head, Firefighter / Paramedic (or Other ALS), Retired

Years in Fire/EMS:

36

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

King County FD11/King County Medic One

Years With Department/Agency

22

Dept. Web Site:

http://www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/ems/MedicOne.aspx

Web Site:

http://www.cityofseattle.net/Police/

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

King County Emergency Medical Services
Seattle/King County Mountain Rescue Council
American Red Cross
National Ski Patrol
Civil Air Parol

My Training:

-US Army Helicopter Pilot
-EMT
-University of Washington School of Medicine/Seattle Fire Department Medic One Trained and Certified Paramedic
-City University Masters in Business Administration

About Me:

I started my life in the emergency service by joining the National Ski Patrol in 1962 (age 15), started teaching 1st aid for the Red Cross at age 18. Worked for a private ambulance company (part-time) to gain practical experience. Joined the US Army to learn to fly helicopters. My Viet Nam experience really increased my interest in emergency medicine. Upon returning home I joined a volunteer/paid fire department to pursue EMT training. Attended 1st class offered to King County Fire Departments 1973. Became part of 1st class of King Medic One 1976. Senior Paramedic until 1990, then became Chief of Department until 1998. Retired to teach music and coach baseball at my kids private Christian junior high/high school and to do private consulting for fire and EMS programs. My favorite pastimes are: spending time with my 5 gandkids, climbing, backpacking, skiing, traveling and DOING ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!!

Day Job:

Retired

Relationship Status:

Single

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

Spirit of community service instilled in me by my mother, a decorated soldier WWII (US Army Nurse).

Why I Love Fire/EMS

The emense, personal satisfaction from a life dedicated to helping people!

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Increasing calls, dwindling revenues.
Increasing violence against responders.