Honoring Their Bravery

After joining the Orange County Fire Department in 1988, he lived his dream as a firefighter, dedicating himself fully to his work and his crew. Off duty, he surrounded himself with his collection of fire department memorabilia, a reflection of his passion for his career. Allen also had a deep love for Disney. One of his proudest moments was landing a part-time role as a firefighter at Disneyland, where his two great joys came together. Allen retained his courage, humor, and kindness after injuring his back on the job. Tragically, Allen died from congestive heart failure following back surgery in 1998. Allen is remembered for his dedication, his laughter, the life he brought to every room, and the adventurous, entertaining spirit that touched everyone he met. He is survived by his wife, Cara.

Brian Coney began his career in the fire service with Cal Fire in 1979. He joined Orange County Fire Authority in 1980, serving with honor and distinction, retiring out of Fire Station 20 in 2018. Brian was a well-loved firefighter in his community and loved his profession. He had a contagious smile and loved to tell great stories. Brian passed away due to a job-related illness in December of 2019.

Dave started his firefighting career in the United States Air Force from 1974-1977. He was stationed at Edwards AF Base and Guam. Dave began his civilian career in 1977 with Cal Fire and transitioned to OCFD and eventually OCFA. His initial assignment was at Station 22 under Fire Chief Chip Prather. He worked as a Firefighter, Paramedic, Engineer, and Fire Captain. After his diagnosis of a brain tumor, he was assigned light duty assignments in EMS, ECC, and his final assignment was in Fire Prevention. Dave passed away from a glioblastoma on April 21, 1999.

Biography to come.

On April 3, 2004, Engineer Emmett J. Wells succumbed to a lengthy battle with job-related cancer. Engineer Wells served the Orange County Fire Authority for 23 years, and previously served the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and Shasta College Fire Department. He was 48 years old, and a member of the California Professional Firefighters and the Orange County Professional Firefighters, Local 3631

Gary Kuhl knew he wanted to be a firefighter ever since high school when one of his teachers suggested he do a ride along at their local fire station. Gary served the citizens of Orange County with honor and distinction for 14 years. He loved spending time with his family, traveling and being outdoors.  Gary passed away from a job-related llness in December 2019.

Greg Hennessey began his fire service career as a volunteer firefighter in Freeport, New York. After relocating to Southern California, he entered the profession full time, joining the ranks of the Orange County Fire Department in 1990. Outside of the fire house, Greg was known as a loving father and husband, an avid Ford Mustang fan and collector, a theater tech volunteer and an active mentor within the Boy Scouts of America. He is survived by his wife Deanna and their two sons, Ryan and Brandon. Greg died in 2014 after suffering a job-related heart attack.

James Michael Owen, who was better known as “Jimmy O”, joined the Orange County Fire Department in 1980, where he served as a Paramedic, Haz Mat firefighter and Federal Urban Search and Rescue Team member. Those who knew him remember him as a compassionate, faithful husband, father and Firefighter, who would give you the shirt off his back. Off duty, he enjoyed camping with his family, off-roading and surfing. He was also an avid fisherman, who often volunteered as a deckhand on a recreational fishing boat. He died of cardiac arrest while on duty.

Jerry Chase Shacklett was passionate about his career in the fire service and served the citizens of Orange County with honor. He was recipient of the Orange County Fire Authorities Best and Bravest award and a founding member of California USAR Task Force 5 - deployed to the Oklahoma City Bombing and Hurricane Katrina. Outside of his work he loved traveling the world and sailing. He passed away from the effects of job-related cancer in February 2016.

Jerry Chastain lived his dream of being a firefighter. He started his career serving the California Division of Forestry for seven years. He served 32 years with the Orange County Fire Authority, promoting to Engineer during that time. He loved being a firefighter because he loved helping people and was passionate about his family and his faith. He also enjoyed the camaraderie of station life. He enjoyed the Dodgers, Lakers and UCLA football. Jerry lost his courageous 10-year battle with job-related cancer at the age of 60.