A FIREFIGHTER FOR almost 30 years, Jasen Damron has seen a lot. He’s run fearlessly into burning buildings, saved lives, and prevented further damage to homes and businesses through the heroic efforts of himself and his fellow firefighters. But fighting fires just scratches the surface of what Damron has done for his community over the last three decades.
Firefighters like Damron are true local heroes who go above and beyond to serve their communities. They are well-trained professionals who handle various emergencies, from fires to medical crises to natural disasters. Beyond their technical skills, firefighters are also compassionate and dedicated public servants who put others’ safety and well-being above their own.
Turning the dream into reality
Growing up, Damron was surrounded by local firefighters.
“I’ve always had a large interest in the profession throughout my entire life,” explained Damron. “I knew a lot of the former firefighters that worked in the community. Those stories and seeing other firefighters’ service in the community motivated me to pursue the profession. I’ve always been a person who tries to help people, and it felt like this profession would allow me to do just that.”
Starting in Tullahoma as a volunteer firefighter in ‘95, Damron was hired full time with the Tullahoma Fire Department in 1998. Since then, he has worked his way up and now holds the position of assistant chief for the department.
“From where I started to where I am now is a big accomplishment. I’ve always strived to advance to the next position,” Damron said. “But I’ve always felt like this is where I’m supposed to be. I grew up with a mentality of helping others. That came from my parents. I think that mentality and being raised that way solidified that this was the profession for me. Helping people, especially the people in my community, has been a driving factor in my love for the job.”
Fighting danger without flames
Damron added that there are many jobs that a firefighter takes on. They conduct fire safety inspections and provide information on how to use fire extinguishers. Firefighters are often involved in community outreach programs and support various community services. They promote public safety by ensuring buildings meet safety standards and assist with emergency planning and preparedness efforts. Damron and his crew are also trained as EMTs and provide vital medical assistance until an ambulance arrives.
“A great thing about the fire services is that there are opportunities to do a lot of different jobs,” he explained.
Damron added that while he and his crew are proud to serve, he hopes the community understands the sacrifice each member makes for Tullahoma.
“I hope people realize that we do a whole lot more,” he said. “It’s not just running into burning buildings. There’s so much more to it. Eighty percent of our calls now are medical-related. We assist with car wrecks and hazardous material calls. We have a joint team in Manchester that can be deployed anywhere and anytime in the state of Tennessee to work hazmat scenes. And the training and certifications are continuous. These men and women have to keep current on all of that, and most of the time, all of the
hard work they put in to make sure they are up to date and prepared goes unnoticed.”
As Damron reflects on his time as a first responder, he hopes he’s made a positive difference in the community that he loves so much. He also hopes to continue inspiring future men and women looking to enter a profession that plays such a vital role in the community.
My main hope is that I left the job better than I found it, which also goes for the city, too. I hope I’ve made my community better. Just being able to have an opportunity to serve feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I also hope I’m sharing the pride and loyalty I have for the job with the men and women coming up through the ranks. I want them to understand how important they are to the community and this profession.” GN
