East Hartford Fire Chief Gets Inducted into the Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame

East Hartford, CT — Thursday, April 4, 2019 was a memorable day for East Hartford Fire Chief John Oates, East Hartford firefighters and the Town of East Hartford. Chief Oates’ hard work and unceasing dedication to the community was recognized Thursday when he was inducted into the Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame. Chief Oates was one of 11 inductees from fire departments across Connecticut who were selected for this prestigious award.

“It is a great honor to share the news that Chief Oates was inducted into the Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame,” said Mayor Marcia A. Leclerc. “This award is a well-deserved recognition that perfectly represents Chief’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents of East Hartford.” 

Chief Oates was appointed in October of 2008 and has been serving the East Hartford community with pride and professionalism since. He holds memberships in numerous fire service organizations, including the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association and the Connecticut Career Fire Chiefs Association. Additionally, Chief Oates has been an adjunct instructor for the Connecticut Fire Academy, Commander of the Capital Region Incident Management Team and as the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association’s Representative to the Office of Emergency Medical Services Board.

“This award means a lot to me because it’s a recognition by your peers that have walked a similar path and understand the challenges of today’s fire service,” Chief Oates said. “At the same time, it’s incredibly humbling to have people think you’re worthy of this prestigious award. For me, it’s a testament to the people who I’ve worked for and with and the work of the firefighters I’m lucky to lead.”

Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame Award was established in 2009 and it annually recognizes present and past members of an organized fire department that have gone above and beyond their call of duty to better fire service throughout Connecticut and the United States and have made significant contributions to the enrichment of the organizations that they represent. Chief Oates is the first East Hartford Chief to receive this recognition.