Richard Miller, 78 was born in Jacksonville. He was raised in Grand Crossing and graduated form Andrew Jackson High School. Richard joined the department in May 1962 and retired as a Lieutenant, Rescue 20 in 1997 after 35 years. Richard spent 10 years of his 26 years in Rescue with J.R. Worthington.

Richard’s first assignment was Engine 1A, which later was know as the “troubled shift.” He then was transferred to Engine 13 for 2 months and then on to Engine 17 for 4 years. Richard said that the contract for the Huron Street station was awarded in 1950 at a cost of $22,000.

While at Engine17 Chief Dowling made a phone call on the station phone to say he had heard Richard was interested in transferring into the Rescue Division. As Richard was talking to Chief Dowling, Lt. O’Steen walked through the day room and upon seeing him Richard told Chief Dowling to “figure me in.” Richard left engine 17 and was assigned to Rescue 12 (Station12) with Wayne Doolittle as a riding partner.

Richard was a member of the first ACLS team that won International Competition in 1970 in
Atlantic City, New Jersey. They took first place in the event. This is Richard’s most memorable event during his tenure in Rescue.

The brotherhood and feeling of family is very important to Richard and he enjoys our monthy breakfast and yearly luncheon. Every Thursday you can find Richard and others that meet at Hardee’s on Blanding in Orange Park for breakfast.

Richard was devoted to his wife that passed away earlier this year.

	Richard sharing his scrapbooks and history at the Fire Museum. He has chronicled his life in Rescue with picture, documents and newspaper articles along with many awards and accolades.
	Richard showing Linda Treadwell, Curator, Jacksonville Fire Museum his collection of historical memorabilia.  Richard visits the museum regularly and always has a good story for the Curator.
	Richard is demonstrating the use of a Gamewell Fire Alarm Box.  Back in the days, firemen were required to know the box number and address of all fire alarm boxes in their territory.