Yes, that's right. It's Chief Clack writing this post from Minneapolis. I have found lots of interesting opinions and ideas being posted on this board about the BCFD. I will check in once in a while and read what you have to say. My email box is open as well.
I am very proud that Mayor Dixon picked me to lead this department into the future. Together, we can make this department and Baltimore a better place to work and live.
I would ask that everyone keep the discussion respectful, since anyone can read what you write on the internet about our department. Remember that what you write forms an impression about the Baltimore City Fire Department in the minds of people who have never set foot in a BCFD station. Please don't take this as censorship, just as something to think about.
Chief, I want to congratulate you on your appointment to Chief of Fire Department. Most of the members I have talked to are optimistic that you will maintain an open dialogue with the members, as well as both Unions representing all of the members. However, there are many skeptics out there.....and rightfully so. The past Chief of Fire Department destroyed the morale of many of us though unjust discipline, sidestepping the promotion process, threats and intimidation if you questioned anything, etc. Good Luck.
The eternal cynic in me caused me to verify that this thread was indeed initiated by Chief Clack himself so I just called him in Minneapolis and yes, it is our new Chief of Department. Add this to the list of refreshing changes including his encouraging me to call me directly on his cell whenever necessary and not only agreeing to but advocating a meeting with our Battalion Chiefs at our Union Hall next week.
He also advised me that he's been watching this site and is mindful of the "issues" raised here so if there's something you think he might be interested in or should know, you can do it anonymously here or on the 964 site within our more stringent rules.
What more obvious contrast do you need than to have a Chief who not only acknowledges reading postings here but responds in kind as opposed to the former Chief who adamantly denied (and lied about) the former and never had the courage for the latter?
Well, Its you. The man of the hour. You have read a lot of things here on this site. Written by some really good men and women and some really bad men and women. I for one hope you take the good from the bad and fix this departments morale. As a person that rides both suppression and the Medics, I can tell you there are a lot of really great firefighters out there. A lot of really great officers out there. I would like to welcome you to this department and wish you the best of luck. Much change is needed and I hope you are the man to do it. I believe one of the largest complaints you will hear is, we need more FULL time medics on the street and don't let them close any firehouses. Once again Good Luck sir.
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I LOVE COOKIES. BOY THEY ARE SO MUCH BETTER THAN KOOL AID.
Welcome to Baltimore as a son of a retired firefighter who has read with great interest about the demise of one of the greatest , most aggressive fire departments ever over the last couple of years . Has been disheartening to say the least. However I hope you take the time to learn about some of the history of this department and implement any knowledge from it, that you may gain into your tenureship here in Baltimore . It may be a helpful first step towards improving the moral of the rank and file .
Wishing you the best of luck.
Chief, Welcome to Baltimore and the Greatest Fire Department in the World. We the rank and file that do this job day in and day out even with the great morale busts we have had love this place and the people we are proud to protect. I since day one have prayed that you are the man to bring back morale and make this job and OUR Department what it once was. I can say that you have the full support of everyone I have spoken to as long as you are true, just and, fair. Good luck and, lets roll up the sleeves everyone.
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Don't be sad don't be blue before you know it JUST ONE VOICE will be picking on you!!!!
Welcome Chief to a great fire department. Although retired, I have learned over the years, first in the US Air Force way back, and 33 tears in the BCFD, the successful leaders always stayed close to their men. Your use of the "net" in electronic age attests to that and you will benefit greatly from the input of many fine people, maybe even a few antique firefighters from the wooden ladder and Iron men days..Good Luck and God bless.....
Chief welcome aboard and good luck, its going to be a long road but I'm sure you'll do the best you can. We have a great department with dedicated people who still love to do the job. If everyone works together then we can make this department great again.
Dear Chief Clack,
I will be concise. The root of all the problems that face the BCFD are the product of racial politics. Please accept my sincerest wishes for your success.
Re: New Chief Checking In
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