7/17/2006

Chattanooga, TN – Last night in Brainerd at Fire Hall 13 on Brainerd Road, an all female crew was dispatched for the first time in Chattanooga fire fighting history. 

Shortly after 9pm on Sunday, July 16, 2006, a medical call from 4113 Sundbury Avenue came in to 13’s station. Quint 13 was dispatched to a 78 year old woman complaining of chest pain.  Q13 firefighters took vitals and monitored the patient until Hamilton County EMS arrived.  The women involved were Captain Benita Owens, Firefighter Melissa Miller and Firefighter Kelly Liles.

Marti Rutherford, councilwoman for district 6, said, “What this proves is that education and training make the difference not gender.  I’m extremely proud and honored to have such a talented group of women fighting fires and answering calls in Brainerd.” 

“I’m proud of all of our fire fighters, men and women but especially proud of our team for making it possible for hardworking women to work together in a non-traditional role for the good of our community,” said Fire Chief Wendell Rowe.