On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) hosted a recognition ceremony in honor of our retired Fire Chief, John W. Englund. Held at Fire Camp 2 in La Cañada Flintridge, LACoFD Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone was joined by members of the Executive Team, family, Department personnel, friends and retirees in celebrating the tenure of Chief Englund, who served as the LACoFD’s seventh fire chief.
“As we recognize and celebrate Chief Englund’s remarkable career we are reminded of the impact that a single individual can have on shaping a Department, in addition to all the lives he touched,” Chief Marrone said. “Chief Englund, in the presence of your family, friends and colleagues joining us this morning, we express our deepest gratitude and admiration as we honor you today.”
Chief Englund began his career in the fire service in 1955 at 24 years of age and later assumed the role of fire chief in 1984. After 33 years of dedicated and faithful service, Chief Englund retired in 1988.
Chief Englund’s tenure was marked by numerous accomplishments. While he inherited major funding challenges, Chief Englund managed to pay off all debt owed by the Department during his four years as Fire Chief. This allowed the Department to rebuild seven fire stations and build two new fire stations.
He also funded the Department’s new 9-1-1 Communications Center, now named after our eighth Fire Chief, P. Michael Freeman. He also ordered the first Bell 412 twin-turbine engine helicopter, improving the Department’s aerial firefighting response capabilities.
Chief Englund also played a pivotal role in strengthening and enhancing our mutual aid framework, serving as the chair of the Fire and Rescue Service Advisory Committee and FIRESCOPE Board of Directors, and founded the Department’s Family Support Group.
The Department extends its heartfelt gratitude for Chief Englund’s unwavering dedication to the residents and communities of Los Angeles County, acknowledging the significant contributions he made to enhance the Department.
