2024 OFCA Conference Program

OFCA Conference

Sheraton Hotel in Downtown OKC April 10-12, 2024

BLAZING TRAILS

IgnItIng the Future

nurturIng MInd, Body, and Soul.

PLATINUM SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

2023-24 OFCA EXECUTIVE BOARD

PRESIDENT Richard Kelley, OKC 1st VICE PRESIDENT Craig Carruth, Mustang 2nd VICE PRESIDENT Michael Baker, Tulsa 3rd VICE PRESIDENT Terry Essary, Stillwater PAST PRESIDENT James Heap, Frederick

EXEC DIRECTOR

Kent Lagaly, El Reno

The City of OKLAHOMA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

Richard A. Kelley Fire Chief

April 10, 2024

Subject: Welcome to the 102nd Annual OFCA Conference in Downtown Oklahoma City

Dear Attendees, Sponsors, Vendors, and Partners,

On behalf of the entire Oklahoma City Fire Department and the City of Oklahoma City, it is our great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you who have gathered here for the much anticipated 102nd Annual OFCA Conference. As the 20th largest City in the U.S. and a rapidly growing metropolis, we are thrilled to host you in a city known for its hospitality, exuberance, and rich western heritage.

The Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association (OFCA) is an esteemed organization that plays a vital role in uniting Chief Officers from across the state through educational initiatives, legislative activities, and more. This conference serves as a significant platform for fostering networking opportunities, personal and professional growth, and the chance to explore new horizons within the fire service community.

This year's conference theme, "Blazing Trails; Igniting the Future - Nurturing Mind, Body, and Soul," encapsulates our collective commitment to progress, innovation, and holistic development. We aim to provide an environment where ideas are sparked, connections are made, and the flame of inspiration continues to burn bright.

As you embark on this enriching experience, we encourage you to take full advantage of the diverse sessions, workshops, and discussions tailored to meet the unique needs of our firefighting community. The knowledge shared and connections forged during the conference have the power to shape the future of firefighting in our great state.

For any assistance or information during your stay, please do not hesitate to reach out to anyone from the Oklahoma City Fire Department. We are here to ensure that your time in the Capital City is both enjoyable and productive. Our “Mission” is simple but profound – "Meet the Need" – and we are committed to making your experience as seamless as possible.

Once again, a heartfelt welcome to each participant hailing from all corners of the Sooner State. May this conference be a source of inspiration, camaraderie, and valuable insights that will benefit us all as we continue to serve and protect our communities.

Sincerely,

Richard A. Kelley Fire Chief Oklahoma City Fire Department

OFCA PAST PRESIDENTS

Sid Bean Tahlequah 1937

C.l. SarTain TulSa 1963

e. STanley hawkinS TulSa 1978

Melvin MaShBurn Broken arrow 1990

G.r. MCalpine oklahoMa CiTy 1941

Cleo hinChey henryeTTa 1964

JiMMie CaTleGe oklahoMa CiTy 1982

Charlie Joyner MidweST CiTy

l r. Julian lawTon 1951

e.l. lindell enid 1965

evereTTe Brewer enid 1986

Jon hanSen oklahoMa CiTy 1992

JaCk Gale SeMinole 1952

John T. williaMS Sand SprinGS 1966

ToM C. SMiTh oklahoMa CiTy 1987

paul hinChey lonGdale 1993

GeorGe GeBelein BlaCkwell 1954

niM newBerry oklahoMa CiTy 1968 ernie ledBeTTer

Pictured are Presidents of this prestigious organization established in 1922

JaCk l. Murphree TulSa 1983

JaCkie Carner Sapulpa

allen laCroix TulSa 2005

wade anderS ClinTon 2009

Carl hiCkMan Sulphur 2001

STeve dow duranT 2006

keiTh BryanT oklahoMa CiTy 2010

kenneTh BunCh oklahoMa CiTy 2002

GreG neely Broken arrow

BarT hadley Jr. lawTon

kenny ward alTuS

keiTh Bryan niCholS hillS

Mike ClifTon purCell

GranT deaSon norMan

phil Clover enid 2004

Mike Bower MidweST CiTy 1998

dwiGhT Maker edMond 1999

kenT laGaly el reno 2014

Mike karlin weaTherford 2015

kellie SawyerS oklahoMa CiTy 2016

ray driSkell TulSa 2017

dewayne Burk lawTon 2018

Sean douGlaS ClareMore

BruCe anThony TuTTle

BerT norTon MidweST CiTy

BoB Sholl Grove

Mike CarTer lawTon 1996

Gary MarrS oklahoMa CiTy

GreG herBSTer Mooree

JaMeS heap frederiCk

riChard kelley oklahoMa CiTy

Kent Lagaly

Dewayne Burk

Jim Hock

Bobby Johnson

Family of Carl Holmes

Bert Norton James Smith

Mike Bower with Kellie Sawyers

J. Ray Pence Leadership Award

The J. Ray Pence Leadership Award (formerly called the OFCA Chief Officer Leadership Award) was established to recognize actions and activities of Chief Fire Officers in Oklahoma who produce progressive improvements in safety, efficiency and effectiveness in the areas of Fire Prevention, Fire Suppression and Fire Administration that are outstanding in their nature or impact.

This Award is presented annually to one Chief Officer each year during the Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association Conference in the Spring. The OFCA has partnered with Fire Protection Publications, which has generously enhanced the award by providing a $2,500 Research Fellowship to the recipient in order to improve the safety and efficiency of the Oklahoma Fire Service.

Any Chief Officer in the State of Oklahoma is eligible to nominate candidates. Nominations must be submitted before the last day of January. You may download the nomination form or submit a nomination online at www.osfa.info. Nominations must be returned to the office of the Executive Director by mail or e-mail. Nomination Form can be mailed to: Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association, ATTN: Kent Lagaly, 2716 NE 50 Street, OKC, OK 73111.

OFCA Lifetime Service Award

The purpose of the OFCA Lifetime Service Award is to recognize retired chief officers from an Oklahoma Fire Department for his/her contributions to the fire service profession. Any retired chief officer from any Oklahoma Fire Department is eligible to be nominated.

Nominations must be endorsed by two current active OFCA members and a member of the nominee’s community. Nomination is not an automatic award. The award will only be presented when a worthy recipient is identified. Only one award will be selected in any one respective year.

The nominee must have demonstrated contributions to the Oklahoma Fire Service while serving as a chief officer in the state. This includes being active in one or more fire service organizations, serving on various committees, initiating changes that improved the fire service, etc. The nominee must have had a positive impact on the quality of life in his/her community. The nominee must have demonstrated integrity as a person and as a leader.

The Selection Committee for the OFCA Lifetime Service Award shall be determined by the current OFCA Executive Board. Nomination Form can be mailed to: Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association, ATTN: Kent Lagaly, 2716 NE 50 Street, OKC, OK 73111.

OFCA LADIES AUXILIARY

Dear Ladies Auxiliary (Partners) Attendees,

It is with great pleasure that we extend a warm welcome to all participants of the OFCA Ladies Auxiliary Partners Conference in Oklahoma City.

Our aim for this conference is to create an environment that is not only enjoyable but also enriching, providing each attendee with a unique opportunity for growth, mutual support, and networking.

Together, we have the power to forge meaningful connections that will strengthen our community as a whole.

As you spend your time in OKC, our goal is to ensure that you feel welcomed and valued. We are committed to facilitating networking opportunities, fostering new relationships, and cultivating solidarity among all attendees. This is a time for us to come together, learn from one another, and grow collectively.

2024 OFCA LADIES AUXILIARY AGENDA

Wednesday, April 10

6:00-8:00 p.m. Vendor Appreciation with Open Vendor AreaSheraton Hotel, 2nd Floor Drinks, Appetizers & Tasting - Registration Open

Thursday, April 11

7:00 a.m. Past Presidents Breakfast - Invitation Only

8:00 a.m. Registration and Open Vendor AreaSheraton Hotel, 2nd Floor

9:00 a.m. Meeting - 2nd Floor Banquet Room

Call to Order - Richard A. Kelley, OFCA President,

• Oklahoma Fire Pipes and Drums

• Posting of Colors: OKC FD Honor Guard

• Prayer - Steve Harris, OKC FD Chaplain

Welcome to OKC - Mayor David Holt

Should you have any questions or require additional information throughout the duration of the conference, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your satisfaction and comfort are our top priorities, and we are here to assist you in any way we can.

I eagerly anticipate a successful and collaborative conference, filled with engaging discussions, insightful exchanges, and memorable experiences. Thank you for being a part of this special event.

-- Liz Kelley, 2024 OFCA Ladies Auxiliary President & Wife of Oklahoma City Fire Chief Richard A. Kelley

Western Oklahoma Clint Barney 580-718-2758

Eastern Oklahoma Curtis Bales 918-825-3851

www.RCBbank.com

Conference Welcome - Richard A,. Kelley, OKC FC OFCA Ladies Auxiliary - Liz Kelley

Introductions - Richard A. Kelley, OFCA President Memorial Service

• Craig Carruth, Mustang Fire Chief, OFCA 1st VP

• OKC FD Honor Guard

• Oklahoma Fire Pipes and Drums

9:45-10:00 a.m. Ladies Dismissed

Vans depart hotel for Bricktown Water Taxi

10:15-11:15 a.m. Bricktown Boat Tour

11:30 a.m. Lunch at Vast

1:30-4:00 p.m. Pinot’s Palette

4:15 p.m. Vans return to Sheraton Hotel

4:30-5:00 p.m. Decorate for Banquet - Sheraton Hotel, 2nd Floor

5:30-6:30 p.m. Past Presidents Reception - Invitation Only

6:30-7:30 p.m.

Sponsored by “The Council”

Associate Members Reception

All are Invited - Sponsored by OFCA Associate Members

Drink tickets can be used for Associate Members

Reception or saved for OFCA Banquet

7:30 p.m. OFCA Banquet - Sheraton Hotel, 2nd Floor

Western/Cowboy Theme - Western/Business Casual Attire

Must have ticket to attend

• OFCA Lifetime Service Award Presentation

• J. Ray Pence Leadership Award Presentation

• Auction

• Entertainment

• Door Prizes

Friday, April 12

8:00-9:00 a.m. Vendor Area Open

9:30-11:00 a.m. Catered Brunch - Red Carpet Room

Presentation of Gifts

11:00 a.m.-Noon Business Meeting - Red Carpet Room

Call to Order - Liz Kelley

• Old Business

• New Business

• Election of New Officers

• Announcements

• Adjourn Sine Die

• Door Prizes

OKLAHOMA FIRE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION LADIES AUXILIARY PAST PRESIDENTS * Deceased

Mrs. M. (Cyndi) Gatlin-Coleman, Harrah

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Mrs. John (Mary Lou) Moad, OKC

Mrs. David (Ann) Bain, Midwest City

Mrs. Bob (Barbara) Bledsoe, Norman

Mrs. Lonnie (Laura) Fisher, Owasso

Mrs. Keith (Becky) Bryan, Nichols Hills

Mrs. Carl (Jana) Hickman, Sulphur

Mrs. Steve (Donna) Dow, Durant

Mrs. Larry (Donna) Klein, Lawton

Mrs. Carl (Leanna) Tanner, Braman

Mrs. J.R. (Melanie) Wheeler, Altus

Mrs. David (Sandy) Thompson, Slaughterville

Mrs. Carl (Jana) Hickman, Mustang

Mrs. James (Sharon) Fullingim, Norman

Mrs. Bud (Vonda) Shepherd, Slaughterville

Mrs. Kent (Deanne) Lagaly, El Reno

Mrs. Mike (Angie) Karlin, Weatherford

Mrs. David (Sandy) Thompson, Slaughterville

Mrs. Neal (Shelley) Young, Harrah

Mrs. Dewayne (Tiffani) Burk, Lawton

Mrs. Sean (Megan) Douglas, Claremore

Mrs. Bruce (Leah) Anthony, Tuttle

Brandy Strahorn, Midwest City

Mrs. Greg (Sandra) Herbster, Moore

Mrs. James (Bridget) Heap, Frederick

OKLAHOMA FIRE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10

Blazing Trails: Igniting the Future, April 10-12, 2024

• At Sheraton Hotel in OKC

7:30 a.m. Golf Registration - Rose Creek Golf Course (17031 N. May Ave., OKC, OK)

9:00 a.m. Shotgun Start at Rose Creek Golf Course

2:30 p.m. Lunch & Golf Awards - OKC Firefighters Local 157 (157 NW 6th St., OKC, OK)

6:00 p.m. Vendor Appreciation with Open Vendor Area - Sheraton Hotel, 2nd Floor

Registration Open - Drinks, Appetizers & Tastings

8:00 p.m. Hospitality Room - Sheraton Room (Downstairs)

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

7:00 a.m. OFCA Past Presidents Breakfast (By Invitation Only)

8:00-9:00 a.m. Registration & Open Vendor Area - Sheraton Hotel, 2nd Floor

9:00 a.m. Meeting - 2nd Floor Banquet Room

Call to Order - Richard A. Kelley, OFCA President, Oklahoma City Fire Chief

• Oklahoma Fire Pipes and Drums

• Posting of Colors - Oklahoma City FD Honor Guard

• National Anthem - Miranda Crawford, OKC FD

• Prayer - Steve Harris, OKC FD Chaplain

Welcomes

• Craig Freeman, Oklahoma City Manager

• Richard A. Kelley, Oklahoma City Fire Chief

• Liz Kelley, OFCA Ladies Auxiliary President

Introductions - Richard A. Kelley, OFCA President Memorial Service

• Craig Carruth, OFCA 1st Vice President, Mustang Fire Chief

• Video/Music - Miranda Crawford, OKC FD

• TAPS - OKC FD Honor Guard

• Amazing Grace - Oklahoma Fire Pipes and Drums

Ladies Dismissed

Appointment of Committees - Credentials • Resolutions • Nominating

GUEST

9:45 a.m. Break and Vendor Area Open (Vendors have door prizes that you must sign up for at their booths)

If you are running for the OFCA Board, please find a Nominating Committee Member

10:30 a.m. 1st Speaker: Behavioral Health

Sarah Parks - Behavioral Health Clinician, OKC FD

11:30 a.m. Lunch Provided by OFCA Sponsors and Vendor Area

1:00 p.m. 2nd Speaker: Functional Health for the Fire Service

Damon Glass - Licensed Athletic Trainer, OKC FD

2:00 p.m. Break and Vendor Area Open

4:15 p.m. Door Prizes announced - Must be present to win

2:30 p.m. 3rd Speaker: Building Resiliency, Connecting Behavioral and Physical Well Being

Sarah Parks - Behavioral Health Clinician, OKC FD

Damon Glass - Licensed Athletic Trainer, OKC FD

Dr. Brian Coleman, OU Health, Sports and Family Medicine

Sarah Parks OKC FD

Chris Kannady State Representative

Dr. Brian Coleman OU Health

ASSOCIATION 102nd OFCA Conference

Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul

• Hosted by Oklahoma City Fire Department

4:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Vendor Area Open with Cash Bar - Door Prize Drawings at 4:30

OFCA Past Presidents Reception (By Invitation Only) - Sponsored by “The Council”

Associate Members Reception

All are Invited - Sponsored by OFCA Associate Members

Drink tickets can be used for Associate Members Reception or saved for OFCA Banquet

OFCA Banquet - Western/Cowboy Theme

Western or Business casual attire • Must have ticket to attend

• OFCA Lifetime Service Award Presentation

• J. Ray Pence Leadership Award Presentation

• Auction

• Entertainment / Door Prizes

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

8:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:45 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

Vendor Area Open

Call to Order - Richard A. Kelley, OFCA President, Oklahoma City Fire Chief Invocation

Reports:

• Legislative Report - Don Armes, OSFA Lobbyist; Bert Norton, OFCA Legislative Committee; Thomas Lewis II, OML Governmental Affairs

• OSFA Report - Mike Kelley, OSFA Executive Director

• ORFA Report - Mike Duncan, ORFA President

• IAFC SW District Report- Bert Norton, President

• Oklahoma Municipal League Report

• State Fire Marshal Report - Keith Bryant, State Fire Marshal

Kelly Ransdell, NFPA

State Representative Chris Kannady - District 91

10:30 a.m. Break

11:00 a.m.

11:15 a.m.

State Senator Chuck Hall

Business Meeting

• Membership Report - Terry Essary, OFCA 3rd Vice President, Stillwater Fire Chief

• Credentials Committee Report

• Conference Resolutions & Special Resolutions Report

• Final Nominating Committee Report

• Distribution of Ballots - Election of Officers

• Selection of 2025 Host City - Craig Carruth, OFCA 1st Vice President, Mustang FC

• President’s Report - Richard A. Kelley, OFCA President, Oklahoma City Fire Chief

• Executive Director’s Report - Kent Lagaly, Ret. El Reno Fire Chief

• Election Results

• Old Business / New Business

• Presentation of Gifts

• Installation of Officers - James Heap, OFCA Past President

• Executive Board Comments

• Announcements

Damon Glass OKC FD

Chuck Hall

Representative State Senator

Coleman Kelly Ransdell NFPA

Oklahoma City Fire Department History

1889 – 1899

The town site of Oklahoma, or Oklahoma Station, was covered with tents with nearly 10,000 settlers all seeking to lay claim to a town lot or 160 acres of prime grassland. This was the setting that began what is now Oklahoma City.

With such a multitude of humanity, it became apparent that fire protection by competent men was needed. The legislation that created the opening of the Unassigned Lands failed to provide for any form of town government. So volunteers formed the first fire department led by 21-year-old Andrew F. “Andy” Binns.

The first piece of equipment was an old hand-drawn wagon donated by the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company. The wagon was equipped with buckets and ladders. The fire department was housed in a small framed building built within weeks of the run.

From 1889 to 1891, Oklahoma City went from a tent city to wooden structures to the beginning of more substantial buildings made of brick and mortar.

As the city grew, the need to properly outfit the fire department was evident. On Aug. 31, 1891, the city signed a contract to purchase the first hook and ladder truck for the astronomical sum of $570. By October of that same year, the department purchased a double 50-gallon tank, four-wheel chemical fire engine at a cost of $1,750. Additionally, a team of horses, Jumbo and Babe, was purchased for $250 to aid the rapidly growing department.

Early in 1892, a new station was built in the center block bounded by Main Street on the north, Grand Avenue on the south, Harvey Av-

enue to the west and Robinson on the east. The new facility was a framed structure with three apparatus doors plus a 65-foot lookout tower. This new feature of the tower allowed for one to sit “the watch” and when a fire was sighted, a revolver was fired to signal the volunteer firefighters to respond immediately.

The first firefighters fought blazes without the benefit of protective clothing. On June 27, 1892, the first Cairns leather helmets were purchased to help remedy that problem.

On June 11, 1894, a set of rules of operation was adopted. The new rules set the requirement of 12 ablebodied men to be paid 50 cents an hour for fighting a fire.

No volunteer could be younger than 21. Officers were elected, and the President then appointed a Foreman. Greater harmony resulted throughout the department due to this action.

In the decade from its creation in 1889 to 1899, achieved were the beginnings of the volunteer fire company with one donated handdrawn wagon, to the advent of acquiring protective gear for the fire fighters, to having paid firefighters.

Much was accomplished at the end of the first 10 years, but much more was to come with the dawn of a new century.

1900 – 1909

By the year 1900, Oklahoma City had doubled in population to over 20,000 persons. The fire department made several changes to meet the needs of such a growing populace.

Hose wagons replaced hose reels in March of 1900. In that same

year, Benoi Herrington platted south of the North Canadian River (now the Oklahoma River) a community called Capitol Hill. Herrington’s vision was to promote the community as a potential location for the future Capitol of the state of Oklahoma. To meet the needs of this new sector of the city, a new fire station was built in the 200 block of W. Commerce Street (SW 25th) that was known as Capitol Hill Fire Station No. 1.

In 1903, a fierce conflagration broke out in the Lion Store, a dry goods business located at 139-141 West Main Street. The fire was so intense that it threatened the entire city block. Appeals for assistance were quickly sent out. Chief Mark H. Kessler of the Guthrie Fire Department was able to secure a special train from the Santa Fe Railroad that brought men and equipment to fight the inferno. Fire Departments from El Reno and Purcell also furnished men and equipment that helped extinguish the blaze.

The Lion Store fire demonstrated to city officials that fire protection for the city was inadequate, at which point they immediately took steps to improve the effectiveness of the fire department. One of the first steps was to hire a Fire Chief for the department that had firefighting experience. From 1889 to 1903, there was no requirement for the head of the fire department to have any professional experience.

Guthrie Fire Chief Mark Kessler distinguished himself in directing men and equipment during the Lion Store fire. He was also known to be one of the most experienced firefighters in central Oklahoma Territory having had 13 years of experience with Chief Hale of Kansas City Subsequently, on July 15, 1903, the City Council appointed 34-year-old Missouri native Mark H. Kessler to the position as Fire Chief of the fire department.

The fire department, by this time, had a hose wagon with ladders and an Amoskey Steamer housed at Fire Station No. 1, while Station No. 2 had one hose wagon pulled by a team of bay horses. During the next few years, improvements came in rapid succession, largely due to Chief Kessler’s input. In March of 1904, Chief Kessler received his own vehicle, a new buggy with a large gong on the front. In 1905, Station No. 3 located at 1111 N. Hudson was built. It was a two-story brick structure with two apparatus doors.

As the first decade of the 20th century progressed, additional equipment was acquired. In May of 1906, a number 9600 steamer was added to the arsenal to combat fire-related incidents. This modern rig required three horses to pull it.

By 1907, Oklahoma City was expanding west of the original town site which was Western Avenue. To provide coverage for this expansion, Station No. 4 was built in the 100 block of N. Western Ave. This structure was a small, framed building that housed a hose cart.

And 1907 marked the end of Oklahoma Territory transforming the land that also included Indian Territory and No Man’s Land into the 46th state to enter the union on Nov. 16. With statehood finally achieved, new investment in Oklahoma, and particularly Oklahoma City, reached a fever pitch.

1910 – 1919

The population from 1907 to 1910 doubled from 32,452 to 64,205. This was due to several factors including increased manufacturing, the service sector and the election in June of 1910 to decide where the Capitol of the state was to be located. Since 1889, Guthrie had served as the territorial Capitol and continued to do so for the first few years after Oklahoma achieved statehood. When the election results were determined, Governor Charles Haskell had the state seal removed from Guthrie in the middle of the night on June 10-11. By the morning of June 11, Oklahomans awoke to the news that Oklahoma City was the new Capitol.

This rapid growth led the city fathers to float a bond issue for the voters to decide whether to modernize the city fire department and provide for better fire protection. The bond issues passed, which enabled the fire department to add new stations and purchase much needed equipment.

By 1911, the number of stations had grown from four to nine. Some stations were relocated and remodeled. A new Fire Headquarters, known as No. 1 Station, was built as a three-story brick structure at 428 W. California. Three apparatus doors in front and two in the rear allowed for rapid exit of the rigs housed there.

The original No. 2 station closed, and a new facility located at 211 N. Walnut was constructed as a two-story building with two apparatus doors. Additionally, a two-story red-brick structure was built at 1245 NW 2nd that became No. 4 station. This facility had two apparatus doors on the front and one side door opening on Douglas Street. Fire Station 5 was built at 2200 N. Western with Station 6 being built at 1100 NE. 9th Street. Both were two-story facilities with two doors for fire equipment.

With the city expanding west and north of the downtown core, expansion was also occurring in Capitol Hill. That community was

merged with the city in 1910. In 1911, the original Capitol Hill Station No. 1 was replaced using bond money voters had passed the previous year. The new station became No. 7 and was located at 2500 S. Harvey. This facility was modeled after Fire Stations 5 and 6 as a two-story brick structure that had two doors to accommodate equipment.

With the growth of the Oklahoma City Stockyards, west of Capitol Hill, Station No. 8 was placed in the Stockyards. It was a small, framed building surrounded by horse barns. The original Station No. 1, located at California and Broadway, became Station No. 9.

The bond money also allowed the city to purchase its first motorized rig, an American LaFrance Type 5 hose and chemical combination vehicle. Additionally, a 75-foot aerial truck, along with a service ladder truck, steamers and much needed hose wagons were purchased. All were pulled by horses. The number of horses in service by this time was 40, all of which were trained for fire service activity.

1920 – 1929

By 1920, most horsedrawn rigs were phased out leaving 10 horses in service.

That same year, three more American LaFrance 750-gallon-per-minute engines were purchased along with a city service truck. In the fall of 1921, three more American LaFrance engines were added, two with 750-gallon-per-minute capacities and one capable of pumping 1,000 gallons per minute.

With the new pieces of equipment, the last horse-drawn hose company based at No. 4 Station was phased out on April 21, 1921.

After serving ten years as Fire Chief, Mark Kessler stepped down and was succeeded by John Von Elm on July 1, 1913. However, Von Elm’s service was the shortest tenure of any Chief, as he resigned one month later. Ross Brooks was appointed acting Fire Chief on Aug. 1. Brooks was appointed to the position permanently on Feb. 4, 1914.

Chief Brooks, during his six years as head of the city fire department, began to replace horse-drawn equipment with motorized vehicles. In 1914, two horse-drawn service ladder trucks were converted with commercial tractors, one an Indiana, the other a Thomas Flyer. During this same time, a 750-gallon-per-minute motor-driven American LaFrance Pumper with hose bed was delivered.

In 1916, three Knox Martin three-wheel tractors were purchased to motorize two steamers and the aerial truck. Later, the single front wheels were replaced with a conventional two-wheel front end.

In 1919, a change in work hours was established and the two-platoon system was introduced. The day shift worked a total of 10 hours with the night platoon on duty for 14 hours. The shift change took place at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. The platoons were rotated at 1 p.m. on the 5th and 20th of each month.

On April 1, 1919, Chief Brooks resigned, and A.G. “Tony” Meyers was appointed his successor. On a side note, after an absence of six years, former Chief Mark Kessler returned to work for the city as Commissioner of Public safety.

Jackson Day Cell: 405-999-7860

Office: 913-390-1777

In 1921, 38-year-old former Chief Ross Brooks returned to the department as an Assistant Chief. That same year, Chief Tony Meyer, who was 41, was replaced by Kentucky native George B. Goff who was the youngest Fire Chief to assume the position at the age of 27 on June 21. Though Andy Binns was only a 21-year-old Fire Chief in 1889, the fire department was a volunteer force at that time.

George Goff’s first test as Fire Chief came six days later when on June 7, a fierce and stubborn fire broke out in the Curtis, Booth and Bentley Millward Company, which was a manufacturing firm for wood products located at 701 W. Main Street. The department fought a losing battle as the building and contents were a total loss.

In 1922, Chief Goff designed a new 750-gallon-per-minute pumping engine. He proposed that the turret pipes be mounted on the decks behind the gas tanks. Built by Seagrave Company, three engines of this design were delivered as well as a city service ladder truck. The ladder truck and one Seagrave engine were assigned to Station No. 1 with the other engines based at No. 3 Station and No. 9 Station. Within the same year, a Seagrave tractor was delivered for the aerial truck. With the addition of the three Seagrave engines, along with the American LaFrance engines, the total number of service engines was 11.

Late in 1922, the American LaFrance Water Tower, purchased in 1910, formerly horse-drawn, was motorized and put in service October 20, 1922. With the renovations made to the tower, the front end was removed to bolt the chassis of a two-wheel-drive tractor that had a 150-horse-power motor. This engine is on exhibit at the Oklahoma

City Firefighters Museum.

The year 1923 saw more expansion with three new stations being built. Two were relocations of existing stations with the other being an additional station. The new station became Station No. 11 and was located at 1236 NW. 36th Street. Station No. 10 was relocated from 2353 NW. 16th to 2039 NW. 16th Street. Station No. 8, first established on Exchange Avenue and then moved to 1501 S. Agnew, relocated to 1939 Exchange Avenue. Also, in 1923, two Squad Companies each with a Chief Officer in charge was put in service. The squads, built by the White Truck Company, were based at No. 1 Station and No. 3 Station.

On November 29, 1927, a $70,000 Bond Issue program was brought before the voters to provide further improvements of the fire department. Voters approved the bonds whereby, a year later, construction was completed on a new No. 5 Station at 504 NW. 23rd Street. It was designed with three apparatus doors and quarters for the District Chief. As this station was opened, the old Fire Station 5 at NW. 21st and Western was closed.

Moreover, the bond money provided for the purchase of two 65-foot Seagrave tractor-drawn aerial trucks that had the capacity of pumping 600 gallons per minute and a 75-foot aerial trailer to be attached to a tractor that was already in service.

During the 1920s, music was very much a part of the “roaring twenties.” It became known that many of the firefighters were musicians which led to a band being organized. Soon, these talented firefighters were much in demand for parades, concerts, dedications and many other functions around the city. The band provided a relaxing outlet for the stress of their jobs allowing the men many hours of pleasure, not only for them, but the citizens as well.

1930 to 1939

With the New Year and decade of the 1930s on January 1, No. 12 Fire Station located at 2145 N. Eastern (now Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard) was opened. The old, Type-5 hose and chemical combination rig was also based at the new station.

A white rig used as a Foam Wagon to fight oil field fires was based at No. 7 Station. This change was fortunate, as on March 26, 1930, the Mary Sudik Number One, southeast of the city, blew when the crew lost control of the well. The “Wild Mary Sudik” as it was dubbed continued to spray oil far and wide up to ten miles from the well site. It would not be capped until April 6.

In 1935, the first pumping engines with commercial chassis were purchased. The three Seagrave 500-gallon-per-minute pumping engines were mounted on Ford chassis. An additional engine of this type was acquired in 1936. These engines were placed in service as Engines, 10, 11, 12 and 13. Engine 13 operated out of Station No. 7.

At the beginning of 1938, Chief Goff had served 17 years as Fire Chief. During his tenure, Goff was responsible for many improvements in the department’s operations and equipment. But Chief Goff

sought a new opportunity that caught his eye – politics! Goff felt the need to serve the city in another capacity and so retired on March 1, 1938 so he could run for the position of Sheriff.

Goff’s assistant George R. McAlpine was appointed Chief the same day Goff retired. As a side note, former Chief Goff won the election for Sheriff.

On Aug. 22, 1938, tragedy struck when Squad No. 3 collided with a police patrol car at the intersection of NE.10th and Durland. Both were responding to a fire alarm in the 700 block of NE 6th Street. Police Officer Fred Counts was killed in the collision, and all firefighters were sent to the hospital, although none of them were seriously injured. The Squad crew included Captain L.P. Waddle, Driver A.R. Willis and Firefighters B.A. Heyn and O.R. Tackett. The squad was out of service until December 2, 1938.

In July of 1938, a new helmet design was introduced. This aluminum, oilfield-type helmet replaced the old “New Yorker” type leather helmet. The aluminum headgear afforded the firefighter more protection as it could be worn with ease and adjusted to fit one’s head. The cost to each man was $3 for the innovative helmet.

Another important step in modernization was the introduction of the two-way radio. The first one was put in service April 16, 1939. This was a tremendous asset for communications for the department.

1940 – 1949

When the unprovoked attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941 occurred, America was thrust into the fray. As a direct result of President Roosevelt’s call for war on Dec. 9, an order was issued by fire department administrators that canceled all days off and would continue for the duration of the war.

As firefighters either enlisted or were drafted for the war effort, the strength of the department was compromised. To conserve manpower

and to increase fire protection, a proposal was introduced to change from a 10-hour shift and 14-hour shift to a 24-hour shift. The vote on the shift change took place on April 16th, 1943 and went into effect on April 20, 1943. The change had a 90-day trial period before implementation. The firefighters decided that an 8 a.m. shift change every 24 hours was preferable, so by August 26, the change took place.

Oklahoma City during the early years of the war began to slowly increase in populace as well as in investment in the city. This steady growth also led to a need to increase fire protection. The city budget for 1944 -1945 provided for the purchase of a 750-gallon-per-minute engine and a 100-foot aerial truck.

Fire Chief McAlpine saw the need to keep up with dynamic growth of the city and proposed to the City Council a large bond issue in 1945 to benefit the fire department. The bond issue passed in late November 1945. The bonds would be devoted to four new stations to be designated No. 13, 14, 15 and 16 respectively.

Funds from the Bond Issue also included the purchase of four 750-gallon-per-minute Mack Pumping engines which were then distributed to stations 5, 6, 7 and 8 in the fall of 1947.

On Dec. 15, 1947, a new fire district was activated with the base of operations being at Station No. 7. New District Chiefs receiving the assignment were C. B. “Rip” Collins and Seth Morgan.

Chief McAlpine always found ways to upgrade operations of the department and instituted a new training program and grading system on March 13, 1949.

Oklahoma City publisher E.K. Gaylord, a pioneer with roots dating back to 1903, added the new medium of radio in 1920 for commercial broadcast. On April 26, 1949, the first television station west of the Mississippi River went on the air, and so WKY-TV Channel 4 (now KFOR), added another means for folks to be entertained in their homes.

1950 – 1959

By mid-century, the Oklahoma City Fire Department had evolved from a volunteer company with a donated and revamped beer wagon to a force of 200 men with an extensive complement of apparatus and equipment. At the same time, the city experienced an increase in population to 243,504 persons, or 81,000 more than the census in 1940.

Moreover, building permits hit a record high, totaling more than $50 million. The level of activity in growth of the population and building expansion necessitated further modernization of the fire department resources. On April 11, 1950, a $600,000 Bond Issue passed that allowed for construction of five new stations that were designated as stations 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21.

In 1951, new station No.18, located at 700 Northeast 36th was opened and this was followed by station No. 19 located at 940 Southwest 44th on September 15th, stations No.20 and No. 21 on October 27th and station No. 17 located at 2716 Northwest 50th was opened Nov. 10, 1951.

And 1951 also marked a very important time in history as the “Original 12” black firefighters became members of the Oklahoma City Fire Department. Due to the efforts of the urban League and others during the bond issue of 1951, 12 black men were promised to be hired.

On Nov. 22, 1951, Cecil Dixon, E.K. Russell, Herb Ford, J.B. Coffey, Algie Lawrence, M.O. Nelson, M.A. Franklin, Willard Jenkins, Carl Holmes, Bob Summers, Charles Wright, and J.H. Young were assigned to semi-segregated stations. Two of these black firefighters went on to achieve upper-level management positions during their careers. Melvin Franklin was promoted to District Chief in 1975 and to Deputy Chief in 1979. Carl Holmes was promoted to Deputy Chief in 1973 and to Assistant Chief in 1974.

In 1959, the Oklahoma City Fire Department integrated with men

assigned to Fire Stations 1, 4, 6, 9, 12, and 15. Money remaining from the 1950 Bond Issue was added to funds on hand to construct a new station No. 5 at the site of NW. 22nd and Broadway.

On December 31 of 1955, another Bond Issue was floated to be approved or rejected by the voters. The $309,000 Bond Issue passed paving the way for the construction of two new stations, No. 24 and 25, and the remodeling of Fire Stations 2 and 4.

The bonds also provided for the purchase of three more Ford 500-gallon-per-minute engines and two 65-foot Seagrave aerials mounted on International chassis.

Oklahoma City, along with the rest of the state, celebrated the semicentennial of Oklahoma becoming a state. Also, the department recorded another first as 165 fog nozzles for all engines were placed into service. This was a marked improvement in firefighting techniques.

However, not all was pleasant, especially for long serving firefighters as a new retirement ordinance was introduced by the city council requiring mandatory retirement of all personnel with 35 years of service or those who reached 65 years of age.

With this ruling, Chief George McAlpine, who had 44 years of service, and Deputy Chief John J. Lynn with 49 years of service, retired on July 1, 1958. Succeeding Chief McAlpine was Haskell Graves.

One of Chief Graves’ improvements was to eliminate all night watches for one company stations. Rollaway beds were placed in the night watchman’s office April 10 of 1959. Chief Graves will always be fondly remembered as the one responsible for this most welcomed innovation.

In 1959, plans were underway for stations at Wiley Post and Will Rogers Airports. Before the end of the year, Crash-Fire Rescue Apparatus would be used at these future stations. On December 3, 1959, two new tank pumpers were purchased and placed in service at Fire Stations 12 and 25.

1960 - 1969

After 71 years of growth and professional development, there had been significant changes in firefighting techniques as well as administrative operations.

To begin the decade of the 1960s, two crash rigs carrying foam and dry chemicals that were ordered in 1959 were put in to service in early 1960. These rigs were stationed at Wiley Post Airport in March, and in July, the second crash rig was stationed at Will Rogers World Airport. Both rigs were manned by two men per shift.

In June and July of 1961, three new 1000-gallon-per-minute Boardman International Engines with tilt cabs were added to the fleet and placed into service at stations 14, 17 and 19.

In the fall of 1961, a $1 million bond issue was passed to further improve fire protection for the rapidly growing city. The passage enabled the city to purchase a record 23 1000-gallon-per-minute engines, two rescue squads, four tank pumpers, one snorkel truck, two aerial trucks, two airport crash trucks and two new tank pumper stations that were built in outlying areas.

Moreover, hose towers were added to stations 5, 7, and 14 with additional apparatus rooms added to stations 18, 19, 21, and 22. To round out the gains from the bonds issues, fire hose and fire alarm equipment would be added over the next five years.

In 1962, the fire department added a new and important service in its arsenal to aid the citizens of Oklahoma City by establishing a Rescue and Underwater Recovery Squad. 38 firefighters volunteered to take the eight-week course. The final qualifying sessions were held at Lake Tenkiller on July 8, 1962. Each man was required to dive to a depth of 55 feet to be certified as a Scuba Diver.

To provide the community with this valuable service, an Econoline van, air compressor and underwater suits with miscellaneous equipment were purchased.

In 1963, the fire department added apparatus rooms to Fire Stations 18 and 19 with a hose tower addition to station 19. On August 1, 1963, Haskell Graves retired as Chief with 35 years of service to the department. Deputy Chief John C. Soegel was appointed acting Chief until the appointment of District Chief Ben Dancy on September 6, 1963.

New helmets were purchased to replace the aluminum oil field type used since 1939. The helmets were Topgard Polycarbonate with shields denoting rank and badge in the center of the headgear.

In late October 1963, an 85-foot aerial truck was placed in service at Fire Station 5. In November, a 100-foot aerial ladder truck was put in service at Station 1.

In April 1964, all night watches were eliminated at all stations and was welcomed by all concerned. Fire Station No. 26 at Wiley Post Airport was opened and placed in service on February 2, 1964. That fall, the membership of the department voted to become members of the International Association of Firefighters. A charter was signed on September 15, and the Oklahoma City Fire Department became known as Local 1524.

On May 27, 1965, a 75-foot snorkel truck was put in service at Station 3. Five new 1,000-gallon-perminute pumping engines were added and placed at Stations 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Additionally, on September 2 of 1965, a tank pumper for Fire Station 27 was put in service at NE. 63rd and Post Road while another tank pumper was placed at Station 28 at SE 59th and Westminster Road. At the same time, a new Yankee-Walters Airport crash truck began operations at Will Rogers World Airport.

On Nov. 9, 1965, a 1-cent sales tax was passed by the voters that provided a raise in salary and enabled the department to hire 32 additional firefighters that would allow those in firefighting ranks an extra “Kelly” day off. Over the next two years, the tax money would ultimately add 192 additional positions for the department, thus, allowing for the implementation of a three-platoon system.

With the budget of July 1, 1966, all new firefighters no longer had to pay for their own protective clothing, as these were furnished for the first time by the city. The budget also contained $10,000 to be used for replacement program for protective gear.

Also, a uniform committee was created to make recommendations to improve the appearance of the department uniforms. Recommendations were made that led to the uniform changes for the first time since the formal creation of the fire department. A contract was awarded to one supplier to standardize the uniforms and thus improve the appearance of all fire department personnel.

Education is of the utmost importance to the professional firefighter. With continual changes in equipment and firefighting methods in mind, in 1967, an Associate Degree program in Fire Protection Technology at Oklahoma State University Technical Institute was established. This made it possible for those desiring a formal education in this field to obtain a degree and hopefully merit consideration for promotion in their profession.

On Jan. 1, 1968, the Oklahoma City Fire Department implemented a 56-hour work week by adding a third shift. The additional manpower was voted on in 1965 with a 1-cent sales tax. However, revenue fell short of projections, and by 1968, instead of the 192 additional firefighters intended, only 164 were hired. An extensive training program was conducted, and all personnel hired received the rookie school training.

On July 1, 1969, Fire Chief Ben B. Dancy retired after 35 years. His successor was Byron D. Hollander. Under Chief Hollander’s leadership, two new Assistant Chief positions were created. One was to head up the training and firefighting operations while the other would head up all other special divisions. The creation of these two positions resulted in better working relationship among all department personnel.

1970 – 1979

In 1968, a survey of all city positions resulted in changing all personnel within the fire alarm and maintenance divisions to civilian classifications. After convincing the city administration that this change was not in the best interest of the department, the positions were placed back under the fire department retirement system on March 1, 1970.

On June 1, 1970, the Oklahoma Firefighters Museum opened. The museum is operated by the Oklahoma Firefighters Association. One of the more interesting artifacts in the museum is the first fire station constructed of logs and built by soldiers at Fort Supply in 1869.

On August 1, the historic rank of Lieutenant was abolished and the titles of 87 firefighters were changed to Captain. The change was necessary to eliminate duplication of responsibilities and to utilize the staff more efficiently. Later that same month, Fire Station No. 9 was opened at 1415 SW. 89th Street. The transition from 25 South Broadway was due to Urban Renewal clearing structures to make way for the Myriad Convention Center. Also, the growth of south Oklahoma

City necessitated the move with Southern Hills, Shadow Lake and other sub-divisions expanding farther south.

Fire Station 30 was also opened the same day at Lakeshore Drive. Other changes to the department occurred late in 1970 when Station 15 was relocated from 2221 Culbertson Drive to far northwest Oklahoma City at 2817 NW. 122nd Street, which opened Dec. 8. Station 16 that was located at 3416 S. Robinson was relocated to 405 SE. 66th Street and opened Nov. 24, 1970.

In 1971, the department received three new rear-mount Seagrave aerial trucks that began service in April. These 100-foot ladder trucks were the first diesel-powered equipment for the department and were placed at Stations 1, 5 and 7.

On Sunday August 29, 1971, a third-alarm fire struck the Mayfair Shopping Center located at NW. 50th and May Avenue. By the following morning, some 142 firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation. That fire abundantly exposed the need for additional self-contained breathing masks. Due to this fire, 125 additional MSA masks were purchased, and along with existing masks, every firefighter while on duty had a mask of their own to wear.

In, 1972, construction began on the new Fire Training Center and the new equipment and radio maintenance shop. The old facilities were located at the 400 block of W. California in downtown Oklahoma City. The new training center site was at 600 N. Portland on 14 acres owned by Oklahoma State University and was leased to the City of Oklahoma City for 99 years. The first phase of the Fire Training Center opened on Jan. 4, 1974.

In 1973, construction began on four new fire stations. Fire Station 10 was rebuilt at NW. 16th and Pennsylvania and was back in operation on July 5, 1975. Station 12 was rebuilt at 2121 N. Eastern (now MLK) and opened February 18, 1974. A new facility was built at Will Rogers World Airport for Station 29 which opened March 19, 1974, and in far west Oklahoma City, a new Fire Station 31 was constructed at 618 N. Rockwell that opened May 3, 1974.

In 1976, the fire department received two new “telesquirts.” These were triple-combination pumpers with 55-foot elevated master streams that were purchased for $108,000 each. That same year, Oklahoma changed arson laws that were adopted by the city. The new laws provided the Fire Marshal’s office with needed leverage to fight the increasing problem of fires set by arsonists. This allowed for the city Fire Marshal inspectors to be commissioned as law enforcement/peace officers establishing one of the first organized fire investigation units in the state.

On Feb. 16, 1976, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at NW. 5th and Shartel for the new Central Fire Station complex. The former station was the 400 block of W. California. The new facility would include all administrative offices, the Fire Prevention Bureau, Dispatch Center and firefighting quarters for Station 1.

On May 24th, construction was completed on the new $1 million central fire station. In addition, a computer aided dispatch (CAD)

system was implemented to continue to improve fire service delivery system for the city. The Dispatch Center has been considered the “heart of a fire department.” It is there that information about an emergency is first received and decisions are made regarding what kind of apparatus needs to respond. The computer verifying the address will display predetermined recommended responses. The dispatcher then verifies the availability of the recommended units and then dispatches them in a conventional way.

The Oklahoma City Fire Department continued to expand in 1978 as construction began on the relocation of Fire Station 20 from NW. 10th and Quapah to SW. 29th and Council Road and the relocation of Station 24 from NW. 36th and Meridian to NW 16th and Meridian.

In addition to enhancement of facilities, nearly all the old obsolete firefighting apparatus were replaced by 20 new Ward-LaFrance pumpers and one aerial truck during 1977-1978. Moreover, the department replaced all the conventional fire hose with a new type that did not require drying after each use. The benefits were two-fold in that the need for two loads of fire hose was eliminated thus reducing inventory and cost by one half and the elimination of hose drying towers at new fire stations.

On April 18, 1978, the fifth rescue squad was placed in service at Fire Station 16 at 405 SE. 66th Street. Also, in 1978, the department recognized the need to improve relations with the media and created a Public Information Officer (PIO) position. This position was at first filled by civilians, first with Bobby Williams and then Phil Cooksey. However, in 1984, Jon Hansen, who was promoted from within the FD, was appointed PIO. At the time, the position had the rank of Assistant to the Chief, but in 1985 was changed to Deputy Chief.

In 1979, the Oklahoma City Fire Department put into service a new fire and arson investigation van. This unit collected information and evidence. It also served as a mobile office laboratory and interrogation facility. The Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma City generously funded the vehicle.

1980 – 1989

The census, beginning in 1980, showed Oklahoma County with a population of 568,933 persons.

To cope with a growing metropolis, the department acquired four more pieces of equipment that included two more 1250-gallon-per-minute WardLaFrance engines and two Dodge brush pumpers. With Lakes Hefner, Overholser and Stanley Draper drawing more people for recreational activities, three Boston Whaler Rescue boats were added to the department’s arsenal.

In 1981, Chief Byron Hollander retired after 26 years of service with the Oklahoma City Fire Department. Under his leadership, the modernization of the fire department began in earnest. Firefighters of today and in the future owe a great deal to Chief Hollander for his innovations and vision for the department. In 1989, Chief Hollander was appointed State Fire Marshal for the State of Oklahoma.

Tapped to succeed Chief Hollander was Jimmie R. Catlege during the summer of that same year. A new Fire Station, Station 4, was also opened at 100 S. Broadway.

In 1984, the fire department added to its fleet four more American LaFrance engines and two totally new pieces of equipment -- the Mobile Air Unit and a Hazardous Materials unit. The Mobile Air Supply unit, called Air-1, was housed at Fire Station 1. The fire department received a check in the amount of $125,635.85 from the estate of Elizabeth Belt, whose husband, W.J. Belt, had been a firefighter with the department from 1911 to 1931.

After seven years as Fire Chief, Jimmie Catlege retired from the department. His successor was Tom C. Smith who was promoted to the position.

The 1889 Centennial Celebration that would take place on April 22 was overshadowed by the deaths of three of Oklahoma City’s finest in a flashover fire that took the lives of Firefighter Jeffery Lindsay, Captain Jimmie Ayers and Captain Bennie Zellner on March 8.

After this tragedy, the citizens of Oklahoma City approved a sale tax increase earmarked for fire and police.

The decade of the 1990s would put the department to the test with several catastrophic events from 1995-1999. However, a change in leadership occurred once again in October 1992 with third-generation firefighter Gary Marrs succeeding Chief Tom Smith as Fire Chief, at first as interim, and then permanently Feb. 19, 1993.

Chief Marrs was instrumental in bringing the implementation of the District Management System to the Oklahoma City Fire Department. This de-centralized the decision-making process and accountability to the station level for reducing fire loss in each district. This also created a better working relationship with the citizens, as the stations worked more closely with the immediate community (schools, churches, neighborhood associations, etc.) to see what the biggest fire-related problems were. The stations would work to correct any problems while creating a cleaner and safer city and becoming more involved with the community at a much deeper level.

The full measure of the skill and resourcefulness of all firefighters, administrators and related personnel was put to the ultimate test at 9:02 a.m. April 19, 1995. On that fateful day, Oklahoma City was the target of a senseless act of domestic terrorism.

A Ryder Truck filled with explosives was left parked in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Within a few seconds, the lives of the people of Oklahoma City were changed forever.

A total of 358 people were in the Murrah Building at the time of the blast. The explosion destroyed most of the nine-story reinforced-concrete building and claimed 168 lives (including 19 children) and wounded 674 people.

Within seconds of the blast, fire department personnel were on their way to the building from every direction, without being dispatched. For the next 16 days, 24-hours-a-day, the Oklahoma City Fire Department would be on the scene working in every capacity imaginable.

A category F-5 tornado ripped through the mid-section of the state on the evening of May 3, 1999. The twister began near Bridge Creek in McClain County wreaking havoc in its path. At the South Canadian River, the tornado turned to the east heading straight for Moore.

With wind speeds that were documented at 315 miles an hour, the funnel cloud remained on the ground destroying everything in its path. After striking Moore, it continued northeast hitting Stroud before finally ending its reign of terror and destruction.

In its wake, 44 people died and some 795 persons were injured. More than 3,000 buildings were destroyed with some 5,000 in various degrees of damage. Nearly 10,000 vehicles were demolished. Losses from the storm exceeded a billion dollars.

In far south Oklahoma City, 633 homes and 18 businesses were a total loss. Entire neighborhoods were flattened and unrecognizable.

Thirteen Oklahoma City firefighters’ homes were destroyed and nine more

received heavy damage. The tornado cut a path through the metro area that was 19 miles long. Even with the unusually long path of this storm, the world class weather alert system in Oklahoma kept the death toll from being much higher.

The Oklahoma City Fire Department was the primary first-responder agency. The response was immediate, enormous and systematic. Shortly after being dispatched into the various neighborhoods, the fire department began a house-to-house search looking for survivors.

In the first 24 hours after the tornado, over 200 fire companies (staffed with on-duty and off-duty firefighters) spent more than 4,000 working hours at multiple locations damaged by the storm. The fire department remained at various sites for several days to serve two main functions -- First, area safety officers and points of contact for both emergency and non-emergency issues as there was no telephone service in many of the areas damaged; Second, to assist citizens with supplies and medical needs.

On May 8 and 9 of 2002, a series of tornadoes struck parts of Oklahoma City and the city of Moore almost in the exact path of the May 1999 storms. Five twisters struck the metro within a 24-hour period.

On Feb. 7, 2005, G. Keith Bryant became the 20th Fire Chief of the Oklahoma City Fire Department, replacing Alan Benson who retired on January 1 of the same year. Chief Bryant’s initial priority was to complete the Public Safety Capital improvement projects. He also wanted to focus the department on growing and placing an increased emphasis on firefighter health and safety. In June of 2005, every apparatus in the entire fire department was issued the same allotment of fire nozzles. This enabled firefighters to receive training on a few nozzles, rather than many different types of brands of nozzles.

A new Fire Department Records Management system, ETI Visual Fire, was installed on January 1, 2007. This system allows fire personnel to enter information concerning every incident to which the fire department responds. The system makes it easier for Fire Management Information Systems personnel to analyze data and see emergency response trends. Also, the system made it easier for data to be gathered and forwarded to the National Fire Incident Reporting System for nation-wide fire statistical analysis.

In June 2007, radios were issued to cover every firefighter on every piece of emergency equipment. With this change, all personnel were able to communicate over the radio during non-emergency or emergency situations. This also created a safer fireground for all personnel since everyone would now be able to hear radio communications. This change also complied with National Fire Protection Association communication standards.

In June of 2008, the Oklahoma City Fire Department began using a new Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. The Tritech CAD system revolutionized the way Oklahoma City fire companies were recommended for responses and dispatched to incidents. In the past, the department used static response districts to determine which units should respond to incidents. Also, fire dispatchers had to memorize how many and what types of rigs would respond based upon the incident type.

In 2008, the fire department revised the “High Rise Response Policy.” Expert fire personnel from around the country were brought in to train all department personnel on new techniques to implement this new policy. Under the new policy, two engines, one rescue ladder and one battalion chief would respond to all automatic alarms and smoke investigations in high rise buildings.

In July 2009, all firefighters were issued a complete set of new bunker gear from head to toe. This included a new helmet or the traditional “New Yorker” style helmet. In addition, helmet colors no longer denoted a firefighter’s rank; this was now shown by the color of their helmet reflective decals and color wording of the leather shield on the front of each helmet.

2010 – 2019

As Oklahoma City entered the year 2014, both the city and the fire department would reach yet another milestone together; 125 years of serving the citizens of this great community. Both have weathered much during this time, and both have come out richer for the experience.

In an era where roughly 2 percent of FD personnel were women, Cathy Hayes become the first female firefighter to achieve the rank of District Chief in the Operations Division. Chief Hayes promoted to District Chief, in Fire District 606, on June 9 of 2015. A year later, Chief Hayes was promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief.

The residents of Oklahoma City received some wonderful news on March 14 of 2017. Fire Chief Keith Bryant made a special presentation to City Council announcing that Oklahoma City had received an Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Safety Classification (PPC) grade of “1”. Class 1 represents an exemplary fire suppression program.

The 21st Fire Chief of the Oklahoma City Fire Department would assume his position on Sept. 29, 2017. Richard A. Kelley had acted as the interim Fire Chief after the departure of Chief Bryant and officially took over as the leader of the department less than two months later.

Chief Kelley was immediately responsible for overseeing a department consisting of 990 positions spanning three divisions and administration with a budget of nearly $144 million.

To more effectively move the department forward, three Shift Commander positions were created. On July 27, 2018, the new Shift Commanders assumed their positions. Promoting from Battalion Chief to Shift Commander, Mike Kelley, Sean Cobb, and Jim Williams stepped up to lead and manage in this important, new role.

In 2018, two existing fire stations were replaced with brand new facilities. Fire Stations 21 and 23, originally built in 1951 and 1975

580-330-0887

respectively, were in dire need of replacement. Leaking roofs, cracked walls and cramped quarters gave way to the new spacious and energy-efficient buildings that firefighters were happy to call home. The two new stations, the result of a 2007 bond issue, were identical and were constructed at roughly the same time. Fire Station 21 was raised at 3000 SW. 29th while Fire Station 23 was built at 2950 S. Eastern, immediately to the south of its previous location.

A ground-breaking ceremony for Fire Station 29 took place on May 24, 2018. The new fire station would be built at 8400 SE. 164th Street and was a much-welcomed project by those who live in the area. Fire Station 29 was also the result of the 2007 General Obligation Bond Issue and would cost $2.8 million.

The Oklahoma City Fire Department changed their hiring process beginning January 1 of 2019. For the first time, those seeking employment with the department could apply online through a city-wide platform called NeoGov. This new process resulted in a much larger net being cast for qualified applicants since it was then possible for people to apply from anywhere in the country or beyond. A new written test was also implemented at that time. A third-party testing agency provided a multi-disciplined written test which would be administered by the Oklahoma City Fire Department.

As the decade was winding down, the department was still looking forward with great vision as another new fire station was being planned. Fire Station 38 would potentially be constructed near SW. 59th and Richland Road. The precise location was still in question, but the need for a new station in that portion of the city was a certainty.

As one decade ended, so another would begin. The Fire Department Vision Statement, revised in 2019, was the guide moving forward: “Building a premier fire department through risk reduction, innovative emergency response, and inclusiveness that exceeds community expectations.”

2020 – 2024

The Corona Virus soon became a pandemic, thrusting the world into a decision-making process that had dire consequences for not only the health of people all around the globe, but also for the economy. Fire departments, police departments, hospitals, medical providers, and government organizations at every level scrambled to find ways to deal with this rapidly spreading virus. The Oklahoma City Fire Department was not spared.

On March 15, 2020, the State of Oklahoma and the City of Oklahoma City both declared a state of emergency. Soon, the terms “social distancing” and “flattening the curve” would become everyday utterances. Large segments of the country, and the world for that matter, would shut down in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus. These declarations of emergency allowed “essential employees” to continue working. The Oklahoma City Fire Department did so – but things would be very different.

Beginning in 2021, the Oklahoma City Fire Department has recognized that there are challenges within the EMS transport system in the Oklahoma City area. To be able to assist in overcoming these challenges, the Oklahoma City Fire Department began a collaborative process to provide a supplemental EMS transport service in Oklahoma City.

The Fire Department historically has been a key player in emergency medical services in our community for over 100 years. With the experience of managing a comprehensive first response advance life support system with over 1000 paramedics and emergency medical technicians, OKCFD is prepared to meet the needs of our community with a supplemental EMS transport service.

In preparation for this service, key players worked to amend the trust indenture and the EMS interlocal agreement. After which, the necessary equipment and supplies were purchased.

Currently, OKCFD has four ambulances fully equipped for service. The placement of these units was determined by strategically locating them to assist in providing a shorter response time. Four ambulances and one medic supervisor will be staffed 24 hours-7 days a week. These units will be staffed by four paramedic supervisors, sixteen paramedics and sixteen emergency medical technicians located at Fire Station 9, 21, 22 and 34.

Beginning Nov. 30, 2022, Oklahoma City’s Emergency Medical System began administering Low Titer O positive whole blood to patients who have experienced severe blood loss from a traumatic event.

Currently, three emergency response units carry one unit of blood each. Two of the units are carried on apparatus operated by the Oklahoma City Fire Department and one unit is carried by an EMSA supervisor. All the Oklahoma City Fire Department EMS supervisor units and EMSA supervisor unit can respond to incidents 24-hours a day. This initiative required the development of medical policies, manufacturing practices, and distribution methods.

2023-24 OFCA Associate Members

BearCom Communications (Page 30)

Banner Fire Equipment (Page 5)

Blanchat Mfg. Inc. (Page 29)

Busch & Associates (Page 22)

Casco Industries (Page 27)

City Carbonic LLC (Page 24)

Conrad Fire Equipment (Page 2)

Consolidated Traffic Controls Inc. (Page 16)

Dace Fire Equipment (Page 22)

Davenport Fire Equipment (Page 9)

Delta Fire & Safety (Page 11)

Emergency Apparatus Maintenance (Page 26)

First Due (Page 25)

Heartland Fire Trucks LLC (Page 30)

IFSTA / Fire Protection Publications (Page 28)

I.T.E. Fire & Rescue (Page 12)

Kirkpatrick Architecture Studios (Page 24)

L3Harris Technologies Inc. (Page 34)

Municipal Emergency Services Inc. (Page 25)

NAFECO (Page 7 & at right)

Oklahoma Heart Hospital (Page 8)

Oklahoma Insurance Department (Page 14)

OSU Fire Service Training (Page 29)

OSU-OKC (Page 33)

PSTrax (Page 15)

RCB Bank (Page 16)

Route 66 Emergency Equipment (Page 28)

Selman Welding & Fabrication (Page 32)

Sharp Testing Services (Page 15)

Sourcewell (Western Fire Chiefs) (Page 9)

Tinker Federal Credit Union (Page 33)

VFIS of Oklahoma (Page 8)

Whitton Supply (Page 34)

Wildfire Truck & Equipment (Page 21)

PLATINUM SPONSOR

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BRONZE SPONSORS

NAFECO (Page 7 & at right)

Visit Oklahoma City (Page 7)

COPPER SPONSORS

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Daco Fire Equipment (Page 22)

Firehouse Hydrostat Services LLC (Page 14)

First Net (Page 15)

OKIE Safety Consulting (Page 15)

Operative IQ (Page 21)

PSTrax (Page 15)

Stryker (Page 32)

VFIS of Oklahoma (Page 8)

OTHER OFCA SUPPORTERS

Firehousebeds.com (Page 31)

IAFF Local 157 (Back Cover)

OmniWarn (Page 23)

OKC FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 157 IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE 2024 OFCA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Joining together to enhance, support, and empower the lives of Oklahoma CIty Firefighters.

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