On May 18th, 2008, we celebrated 30 Remarkable Years of service for Chief Bonnie Beers.
Chief Beers, the first woman to be hired in the Seattle Fire Department in 1977, paved the way for women in the Fire Service.  She retired in the position of Battalion Chief and was well respected among her peers. There were over 200 people at her retirement party to wish her well.  Mike Heaton was the Master of Ceremonies and there were several others that congratulated her during the evening.  Council Woman Sally Clark read a proclamation entering Chief Beers into the history books in Seattle.  Chief Gregory Dean spoke on her behalf acknowledging her for her tenacity and integrity.  Carrie Oliver presented Chief Beers with a beautiful oil portrait of her solidifying her as our first female and a great leader.
Click here to see the event photos.

Chief Beers recounted her career with grace and humility with many mindful and funny moments.  She reminded us that we have come a long way since her first days and that we have a ways to go, but that she leaves us on our way.

Penny Stone presented a Video/picture Tribute of Chief Beers' career, letting a few of the people she has worked with over the years express what she meant to them through out the years.  Through all that happened that night... it is just a glimpse of what her career was like as the first female firefighter, a great leader, and a great person.  

"the friends she keeps,

The passion she holds,

The integrity she embraces,

The commitment to her firefights she shows,

And the dedication she lives...

Helps us understand."

Chief Bonnie Beers will be missed!!

Happy Retirement Chief Beers