NVFC Member Spotlight: Jonathan Blankenship

Name: Jonathan Blankenship
Title: Fire Chief
Department: Houston Fire Rescue
Location: Houston, MS

Why are you an NVFC member?
I first became a member of the NVFC when I had the opportunity to serve as a peer-review panelist for AFG several years ago. Since then, I have remained a member. It was easy to see the benefits of being a member. I have used many of the web services over the years. The contacts made through the NVFC, even if just virtual, have proven to be very important in the success of the volunteer fire service.

What is your occupation?
Fire chief

Why are you a fire service volunteer?
My lifelong dream growing up was to be a firefighter.  As soon as I came of age, I joined the volunteer fire department as a junior firefighter. At the age of 18, I was able to move to the full ranks and have served ever since. I was hired as a career firefighter and have worked my way up the ranks to fire chief. I began as a volunteer firefighter, and I will end as a volunteer firefighter. I will never forget where I started.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?
1993

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
I have many. Unfortunately, some of the memorable moments are the ones where loss occurred. Something you can never unsee, unhear… I have many positive moments also. Making little kids’ days at school, opening the car door for them in the car rider line while dressed out in our turnout gear… seeing the huge smile on their faces. We also host a Fire Academy for Kids every year. We average 30-40 kids ages 8-13. Seeing those kids have a great time and learn fire safety is priceless. I have also had the honor of being voted Firefighter of the Year multiple times by my peers. Living life as a firefighter is a dream come true.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
As mentioned above, we are very involved with our local school system. We participate in “High Five Friday” – where we greet kids arriving at school. And “Thumbs Up Tuesday” – where we greet even younger kids before school. We host an annual Fire Academy for Kids for children ages 8-13 where we teach them fire safety and about being a firefighter. We strive to stay active in our community.

Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.