As we close out another year and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges of a new one, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work of the men and women who serve as Firefighters in the six cities represented by United Phoenix Firefighters - Local 493. It has been the greatest honor of my life to represent these dedicated professionals as their Union President.
Our Firefighters are the backbone of public safety in the Valley, responding 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year—missing birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings to protect our communities. This past holiday season, I had the privilege of working both Thanksgiving and Christmas alongside the outstanding members of B Shift at Station 9. My family was able to meet theirs, and I witnessed firsthand the level of dedication and professionalism they bring to the job every single day.
These men and women are not only highly trained in firefighting but also in technical rescue, hazardous materials response, aircraft rescue, high-rise emergencies, and emergency medical services. They never stop learning, training, and preparing to handle whatever situation may arise because they understand the responsibility that comes with protecting lives and property.
However, the demands on our Firefighters have never been higher. Call volumes continue to rise, and our members are being stretched thin. While we have made strides by adding new stations, resources, and personnel, the reality is that the growth of our communities has outpaced our ability to keep up with service demands. This can lead to delays in response times, and no Firefighter wants to feel unable to provide the help that our citizens need—especially in life-or-death situations.
The stress and pressure caused by these challenges are real, and our Firefighters feel it deeply. They signed up for this profession to make a difference, to give back, and to serve with purpose. When obstacles stand in the way of meeting those goals, it’s frustrating for them—and concerning for all of us.
But we are committed to finding solutions. In the months ahead, Local 493 will continue working closely with city leaders, elected officials, and community partners to secure the resources and support needed to better serve you. Our focus is on expanding staffing, adding more equipment, and ensuring that our Firefighters have the tools and training they need to meet the growing needs of our cities.
To the citizens we serve, thank you for trusting us with your safety and allowing us the privilege of being there in your moments of greatest need. And to the Firefighters of Local 493, thank you for your selflessness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to this calling.
We are proud of the work we do, and we are committed to doing even more for you in the future.
With Gratitude & Determination.
Bryan Willingham,
President, Local 493 - United Phoenix Firefighters
