Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Volunteer, EMS/Rescue Squad - Volunteer

Job Function

Captain, Hazardous Materials Team Member

Years in Fire/EMS:

19

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Defiance Fire & Rescue

Years With Department/Agency

2

Web Site:

http://www.shelbycountyema.com

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

Pleasant Hill, OR
McKenzie Fire & Rescue
Upper McKenzie Fire & Rescue
United States Forest Service

My Training:

Wow, 19 years of training summed up is not so easy.
High points are Firefighter 2, Officer 1, Instructor 1, HazMat Tech (Team Leader).
Wildland - Instructor, FF1, ENGB, CRWB, WHSP, HECM

About Me:

I am a proud father, and husband who has a wife that shares in my passion for firefighting. We met while she was in the fire academy. I have four children Thomas who is 15, Teja who is 8, Taylor who is 4, and MacKenzie who just turned 9 months. I live to provide services to our communities that will help all parents see their children grow up and become adults.

Day Job:

Emergency Medical Services Coordinator

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

My Great Grandfather was a Firefighter in Indiana. When I was a young child he gave me a firetruck he received when he retiered from the department. Shortly after giving me the gift he passed away. I always remember the stories, and how everyone thought he was such an inspiration.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

I want to have people in my life, or that I have touched look back and remember someone actually cared.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Safety First!
Actual understanding and compliance with NIMS. ICS makes responding safer, and cleaner if it is implemented without PRIDE getting in the way. In other words forget your day to day title and put the most qualified person for the job in charge.