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, October 11, 2005

CHIEF MONTES DE OCA

Frank Montes De Oca - a veteran of the fire and rescue service in Orange County, Florida - served as Springfield's fire chief in the late 1990s. During his watch, advanced life support (ALS) was expanded to all of the city's fire stations. He was the second chief officer hired from another fire department, the first being Samuel Hunter in 1904. After leaving Springfield, Montes De Oca served as fire chief in Osceola County, Florida.

Photo: Osceola County website