By Becky Robinette Wright

Deputy Chief  Richard  “Rick” McClure, retired on June 17^th after serving over 30 years with Henrico County Division of Fire.

WRIGHT: Where were you born? And where did you grow up?

McCLURE: “Born in Richmond and grew up in Lakeside.”

Deputy Chief Richard "Rick" McClure

WRIGHT: When did you become a firefighter?

McCLURE: “I was a cadet at age 15 for Henrico. That was the year 1973. Cadets couldn’t go to structure fires and we couldn’t ride apparatus. We usually went to brush fires.”

WRIGHT: If you couldn’t ride apparatus how did you respond to brush fires?

McCLURE: “I rode my bike or just got there the best way I could.”

WRIGHT: When were cadets allowed on apparatus?

McCLURE: “When they became 18 years-old.”

WRIGHT: Why did you join the fire service?

McCLURE: “My dad was a captain in Henrico and it was all I ever knew. My dad started out as a volunteer. It was fun.”

WRIGHT: What positions have you held?

McCLURE: “I started as a firefighter and have held every rank to deputy chief.”

WRIGHT: What stations have you served at?

McCLURE: “I started at Station 3, then went to Station 6, then went to 10. While at Station 10 I went from firefighter to Lt., then I went to Station 9, while at Station 9 I was promoted to captain and then went back to Station 6. From Station 6 I went to Station 12, then served as training captain. Next I went to Station 5 then Station 16 and I opened that station. Then I became a battalion chief and served as BC 1. After that I was assistant chief of operations and then four years ago I became deputy chief.”

WRIGHT: What is a call you will always remember?

McCLURE: “Right after I made battalion chief (and the other battalion chief that also responded was promoted when I was) there was a warehouse fire on Sanford Drive. The structure was about 150 ft. by 150 ft. and ¾ medical supplies. The other ¼ was about 10,000 tires. We worked hard and were able to keep the fire away from the tires, not a single one burned. I also experienced Gaston and Isabel, so many calls I have been to.”

WRIGHT: If you could do it all again would you?

McCLURE: “Absolutely.”

WRIGHT: What is one difference from then and now?

McCLURE: “I wish I would have had the apparatus then firefighters have now.”

WRIGHT: Anything else you would like to add?

McCLURE: “It was the best job I could have ever dreamed of for me. It was exceptional and rewarding. “