Being Chief of the Fire Company is no easy Task, some would even say it is like having another full-time job. After 3 Years as Chief of Union Fire Company, Chief John A. Monson has turned in his white helmet for a "black hat". Monson Started in the fire service over 3 decades ago, in his hometown of Wolcott, NY. Monson Joined Union in September of 2009 and worked his way up from 1st Lieutenant, all the way to Chief.

Monson Spent Several years as Asst. Chief, and as his term began as Chief in 2020, the world was hit with the COVID-19 Pandemic. This offered unique challenges to protect both firefighters and the public in general. A slew of new protocols and procedures were put in place to assure safety and continuance of services, should infection spread across the Company. Chief Monson was instrumental in the implementation of the MAP (Mutual aid Pumper) Program during the pandemic, which staffed apparatus around town to assure responses during otherwise difficult times. The MAP was credited with a few good "stops" during its implementation, including a garage fire that nearly spread to a residence.

Other Notable incidents Chief Monson was involved in include -

2022 Christmas Blizzard

2022 November Winter Storm

1700 Union Rd Warehouse Fire (Ops)

The Christmas 2021 West Seneca Highway Garage Fire (Command)

Ridge Road Multiple occupancy/catering company fire (Operations)

Winter Storm Knife 2014 - (Command - As a Captain)

Lexington Green Floods (Multiple, Command, and Water Rescue Asst. Coordinator)

Chief Monson has also led groups for the Special Olympics Torch Run, Polar Plunge, Tunnel to Towers Run, and Fight for Air Climb. His contributions to the Fire Service in West Seneca, and the community at large are immeasurable.

Monson has made it clear that just because he is no longer Chief, does not mean he is done with the Fire Service. He looks forward to remaining as an Interior Firefighter and EMT, as well as a Mentor for Firefighters.

Union Fire thanks not only Chief Monson for his dedicated service to the West Seneca Community for over a decade, but also his family for the sacrifices and support throughout the last 13 years.

Congratulations Chief Monson