On June 18, 2007, nine firefighters perished in a warehouse fire in Charleston, SC. What was initially dispatched as a trash fire escalated into one of the most scrutinized events in national fire service history. David had the unfortunate experience of being the engineer on the first due engine that day. As he operated on the fireground, he witnessed things that he will never forget.
This seminar will present:
- First-hand account of that tragic day to include video footage and radio traffic
- Initial resistance to the change following the tragedy
- The heavy toll that this catastrophic event took on David's life
- Mental health and resiliency programs designed for emergency services since the incident
- Discussions on operations, training, and leadership to help prevent a tragic event like this
- David's journey since that tragic day to remain on the job and help the department improve
Dr. David Griffin is the Assistant Chief of Administration in Charleston, South Carolina. He was the operator of the first due engine on June 18, 2007, when nine of his fellow firefighters perished. He has come through the ranks in Operations in every uniformed position from Firefighter to Assistant Chief during his 20-year career in Charleston. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in education from The Citadel, a Master’s Degree in Executive Fire Service Leadership, and a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development. He remains on the job today in the department that he loves to help it to continue to improve and to honor The Charleston 9 with his work each day.
