Medford FD Recognizes Former Commissioner

In a ceremony recently held at the Medford Fire Department, John (Jack) Kennedy was commended for his 50 years of service to the community. Station Number Two of the Medford Fire Department is now dedicated in his honor.

Kennedy joined the Medford FD in 1961, after moving east from Queens. That was the beginning of a career that would span 50 years. Along the way, Jack's received many awards, including a Rookie of the Year Award, plus a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002.

"To say that Jack is active in this fire department after 50 years is really quite an understatement. He's still quick to volunteer his time and help in any way possible," said Ex-Chief James Dowd. More than 125 people − friends, family and members of the fire and EMS departments − were present to honor Kennedy.

In 1965 Kennedy received his first promotion to Lieutenant. In an eleven-year span he'd worked his way through the ranks, all the way to Commissioner.

He served as Commissioner from 1976 to 1985, and again from 1991 to 1992. While serving as Commissioner, he was a driving force behind getting the Oregon Avenue location of the MFD built and ready for service in 1985.

He retired in 1992, after his second run as Commissioner.