Firefighter Spotlight
Firefighter Spotlight
Captain & Department Chaplain Dennis Allen
Why did you join the Hendersonville Fire Department?
On Sunday afternoons we would visit my grandmother in South Nashville.
We would always pass by Nashville’s Fire Station at 4th
and Shelby (Shelby Bottoms) and that was the highlight of my Sunday trip.
The sight of the big red fire engines captivated me at the age of 5 and at that
moment I knew I wanted to be a fireman.
When I joined HFD on July 15, 1985, we had two stations.
In my 21 years of service we have grown to five stations and
soon to be six. We have added a Ladder Truck, Rescue Truck and
have grown from approximately 30 firefighters to 94 at the present.
HFD is involved with various activities outside the department such
as collecting for M.D.A. (Jerry’s Kids), Christmas for Kids and United Way.
Our firefighters Association has purchased hotel rooms for families that have
lost their home due to fire along with helping replace clothing and
other articles. We also sponsor athletic teams and award college scholarships
to children of our members.
What do you like most about the Hendersonville Fire Department?
All HFD firefighters are offered the opportunity to further their
education in fire related schools, EMT, Paramedic, Extrication and
Arson Investigation just to name a few. As you can see we are a
progressive department of professionals that take pride in the service
we provide for the citizens of Hendersonville.
What is the most significant development in your career?
The most significant development in my career is when I was appointed
Chaplain of the department in April, 2002.
Any community activities?
I am also active in many community activities such as Tennessee
Hunter Education Instructor, President of the Hendersonville
Firefighters Association, Regional Director of Tennessee Federation
of Fire Chaplains, member of American Legion and also a member
of Sons of Confederate Veterans.
What are your future plans?
My wife’s name is Valeri and I have two children, Danielle (24) and
Caleb (23). At this point, I have 9 years left before retirement.
I plan to give the same level of commitment the next 9 years as I have the
last 21 years. I hold my position as Chaplain in the highest regard and plan to
continue as Chaplain of HFD even after retirement.
