July 11, 2006

 Sen. Lisa Brown named honorary fire fighter in memory of Spokane captain

OLYMPIA – Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, who also teaches at Gonzaga University, can add yet another profession to her resume: fire fighter.

Well, sort of.

Recognizing her “commitment both in word and deed to promote the best interests of professional fire fighters in the state of Washington” the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters (WSCFF) recently awarded her “honorary fire fighter.”

But don’t expect her to be wielding a fire hose anytime soon.

“I admire the bravery of fire fighters – their willingness to put their lives on the line every day – but I think I’ll stick to my day job,” Brown said.

The award, established in 1985, memorializes Spokane native Jack A. Waller, who joined the Spokane Fire Department in 1938. From 1941 until 1966, when he retired from the department as captain, he lobbied the state Legislature on behalf of WSCFF. Between 1969 and 1976, he represented the International Association of Fire Fighters, during which time he successfully lobbied the federal Public Safety Officers Benefits Act, which paid $50,000 to a fire fighter who died in the line of duty. Waller passed away in 1986.

“Every day, fire fighters risk their lives to save the lives of others. Jack Waller was no exception, and I’m honored to have received an award that commemorates such an inspirational leader,” Brown said.

WSCFF awarded Brown at its 67th annual convention in Vancouver on June 28.

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