Fire Buffs promote the general welfare of the fire and rescue service and protect its heritage and history. Famous Fire Buffs through the years include New York Fire Surgeon Harry Archer, Boston Pops Conductor Arthur Fiedler, New York Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia and - legend has it - President George Washington.


Tuesday, November 07, 2017

CHIEF COMPTON


Thank you to Fire Journal reader Tracey Young for this photo of Springfield Fire Chief Willard G. Compton's helmet. Tracey's husband is the chief's grandson. Compton served as chief from Feb. 1, 1952 to March 4. 1963. He was appointed to the fire division on Aug. 20, 1929, according to the book From Buckets to Diesels. The home fire inspection was introduced during Compton's tenure.