The Jersey City Fire Department swore in 30-year veteran Jack Johnson as their new chief at a City Hall ceremony this morning, with Mayor Steven Fulop administering the oath of office.
By Daniel Ulloa/Hudson County View
Chief Steven Drennan, who was just assumed the role in mid-June after serving as the acting chief, has to step down after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 65.
Fulop joked he thought it would be a small private, ceremony, while there were many firefighters, personnel, and their families assembled. He also noted they were proud Johnson is a local whose family has lived in Jersey City for years.
“ … It really speaks about him, his belief in Jersey City, and we’re really excited about this … Congratulations. Chief Johnson is at his very core what Jersey City is all about,” Fulop exclaimed.
“He’s been in the trenches, he’s battle tested, and he’s proven his ability to lead when things are tough. I know he will lead the finest fire department in this state and region with exceptional class and distinction.”
During his remarks at the podium, Johnson said it has been a dream of his for years to be chief.
“I’m looking forward to continuing the success of the department … It’s the best department around,” Johnson declared.
In an interview, he said one of his top priorities will be ensuring firefighter safety.
“Saving lives is what I’ve always been able to do. I want to keep that moving forward for the safety of our guys. The city is changing, a lot of high rises, a lot of different changes. I want to be prepared for that stuff,” Johnson told HCV.
“I want to prepare everybody for anything. I feel like that little kid living my dream. When I was seven years old I met the fire chief at the time, John Mullins. And it was unbelievable meeting the chief. I’m going to be chief. It’s crazy.”
He has been a special operations chief in charge of rescue, hazmat, and the marine division, as well as a Group D Tour Commander.
Johnson took pride in being named the Fire Officer of the Year in 2016 after rescuing two families from a burning building in Greenville. He was a captain at the time.
Additionally, e was among the first responders sent to the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, both to initially respond to the tragedy, then as part of the clean up and recovery effort.
