President's Message

a firefighter on a ladder with a hose

RICHARDSON FIRE FIGHTERS ASSOCIATION, LOCAL 1954

Thank you for talking time and joining us on our new website.

The Richardson Fire Fighters Association has only had two different Presidents over the last 15 years. It is truly my honor and privilege to serve again in this role.

When first elected in 2003, I had no idea how to run a meeting much less anything else. It was by chance that the Texas State Association of Fire Fighters 2nd District Vice President Morgan Herron just happened to be passing through town and showed me the way. In no time, I was sitting down with Jim Tate from Fort Worth. From there it was Buddy Mass, Luis Hebert, Bob York, and Guy Turner. The message was loud and clear. Education would be the key.

I remember listening to IAFF District 11 VP Sandy McGhee from Tulsa, Oklahoma and what it was we wanted. I learned to listen to my members and be an advocate for them. I learned that success is based on organization and having a plan. I learned that if you do not have the answer that it was ok to ask for help.

This time around, I hope not to forget any of those long conversations. We have built great relationships within the administration of the department and the city. The Richardson Fire Fighters are active in our community and stay committed to the citizens we have sworn to protect. I still do not have all the answers, but I am dedicated to our members.

Please take some time and look around our website. Discover our history. Buy a t-shirt for yourself or a friend. Sign up for our newsletter and if you feel like it, send me an email at president@richardsonfirefighters.org I would love to tell you about all the great individuals of the Richardson Fire Department.

- John Martin - President Richardson Fire Fighters Association