VIOLA RETIRES
Early last year, Fire Chief John Viola made the decision that 2025 would be his final year leading the Brookline Fire Company, bringing to a close an extraordinary 43-year tenure as Fire Chief. Effective this evening at approximately 2000 hours, Chief John Viola officially retires. This sets him to be the longest active Chief in Brookline Fire Company and Haverford Township history.
Chief Viola began his fire service career on September 9, 1967, at just 19 years old. From the very beginning, he became heavily involved in the fire company. His commitment, discipline, and leadership set him apart from others. After several years on the firefighting crew, he steadily rose through the ranks: Assistant Engineer (October 1970), Lieutenant (February 1973), Assistant Chief (May 1974), and Deputy Chief (February 1982); before assuming the role of Fire Chief on March 20, 1983, a position he would hold and define for more than four decades.
He often learned from his mistakes and took constructive criticism from firehouse “elders” in the early years of his position. Chief Viola trusted his line officers and would always support them in any decision they made, right or wrong.
Under Chief Viola’s leadership, the Brookline Fire Company experienced significant growth and modernization. He oversaw multiple building renovations and guided the acquisition of 13 pieces of fire apparatus, including three aerial ladders, six engines, three foam pumpers, and numerous support vehicles. His stewardship carried the company through two historic milestones, the 75th and 100th anniversary celebrations; marked by large-scale events and parades that proudly displayed the strength, tradition, and pride of the Brookline Fire Company.
One of the more defining moments of Chief Viola’s career occurred in May of 1991, when on his way home from work, Township companies were dispatched to a house fire on Kingsley Road, where a 6 month old child was trapped inside. Without hesitation, he climbed a nearby ladder and could hear the child crying. He found the baby inside the house and handed her off to a police officer who was standing on the ladder. For this act of unquestionable bravery, he was awarded the Township’s highest honor, the Medal of Valor.
On the fireground, Chief Viola’s presence was unmistakable. Calm, composed, and authoritative, he brought order to chaos. His priority was always clear: protect his people and get everyone home safely. Buildings can be replaced, lives can not.
Whether it was Brookline 5, 35-9, or Chief 35 arriving on scene, the sound of his voice meant command was established and the situation was under control.
Inside the firehouse, Chief Viola is equally unmatched. Known for his attention to detail and pride in the firehouse, he maintained a standard of cleanliness that rivals most hospitals; including the restrooms.
Offers of help are often met with either firm instruction or the familiar “just give it to me”. Traditions flourish under his watch, including the highly anticipated Chief’s cheesesteak night and the breakfast he prepares each Santa Sunday. Daily inspections ensure the firehouse is always clean, organized, and ready to answer the next call.
Behind every great leader stands a family whose sacrifices make that service possible. Tonight, we extend our deepest gratitude to John’s wife Denise, to his children, Stephanie and Chris, for their unwavering support, patience, and understanding throughout his decades of service.
The late nights, Monday night meetings, interrupted meals, and countless calls away from home became somewhat of the norm. The Brookline Fire Company is stronger because of their support of John, and we are forever indebted to them.
The impact of John Viola on the Brookline Fire Company cannot be measured in years, ranks, or apparatus. It is measured in lives saved, members protected, traditions preserved, and standards set. After nearly six decades of service and more than 43 years as Fire Chief, his legacy is permanently woven into the foundation of this company. And while this chapter of his unprecedented career closes, we find comfort in knowing that John is not going anywhere and will continue to serve the company for years to come.
From a 19 year old young man from the Oakmont section of the Township, to the pillar of the Brookline Fire Company for 43 years. No words will ever fully express our gratitude for what John has devoted and continues to provide to this company.