Tempe Fire Capt. Don Jongewaard was celebrated for his 30 years of service at the Dec. 21 city council meeting.
As stated in the official proclamation, Jongewaard has demonstrated exemplary leadership as the vice president of the local chapter of the International Association of Firefighters and as the president of the Professional Firefighters of Arizona.
During the mayor’s reports and announcements, Mayor Corey Woods proclaimed Dec. 21, 2023 as Capt. Don Jongewaard Lifetime of Service Recognition Day in the city, highlighting Jongwaard’s dedication, service and leadership to the city. He started his career in the city in 1994.
In his comments, Mayor Woods commended Jongewaard for his contributions to the city, including his work securing benefits on behalf of the Fire Medical Rescue Department and with Tempe fire fighter charities.
“I just really appreciate everything you’ve done for this community, everything you’ve done for each and every one of us. You’re an incredible person, you’re leaving a truly lasting legacy. We know this is not the end, but it’s only the beginning,” Mayor Woods said.
Beyond the mayor’s words, the council members and city manager also shared their sentiments about Jongewaard’s contributions to the city and the impact of his work within the community, with City Manager Rosa Inchausti speaking about the meaningful relationship that she’s built with Jongewaard.
Having also been at the city for 30 years, Inchausti and Jongewaard have worked closely together over their shared time at the city, as he served on the Diversity Steering Committee while she was diversity director in 2002.
At that time, Jongewaard was pushing to increase diversity within the fire department, specifically increasing the number of women employed.
“He fought hard for his members — some arguments sometimes as Council Member Keating said — but it was always anchored in a mission of what’s best for us in our community and our workforce,” Inchausti said.
Members of the community also attended the meeting to speak about Jongewaard’s legacy as an influential local leader, including Tempe Fire Chief Greg Ruiz and Tempe Officers Association President Rob Ferraro.
In their comments, Ruiz and Ferraro talked about their collaborations with Jongewaard, adding more detail about the fire captain’s character and lasting impact.
“As the fire chief, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the impact Capt. Jongewaard’s leadership has had on our union and the entire fire department for 25 years as a trustee and 11 years as our vice president,” Ruiz said.
He ended his comments thanking Jongewaard for his “personal sacrifices and tireless dedication” in shaping the department into what it is today as one of the top fire departments in the country.
Closing the recognition, Jongewaard took a moment to thank the mayor, council and residents for their words.
He said he was only 24 when he came to the Tempe Fire Department, and this decision allowed him to build a career helping the community while also contributing to his own personal growth.
As he put it, that opportunity turned into much more than a job.
Since joining the Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department in 1994, Jongewaard has involved himself in a number of related organizations, such as the United Arizona Firefighters Health Care Trust, the International Association of Fire Fighters and the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona.
“I wouldn’t be the man I am today were it not for Tempe and for each of you,” Jongewaard said.
Reporter Caroline Yu can be reached at cyu@iniusa.org. To voice your opinion on this story, connect with us at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
Meet Caroline Caroline Yu joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in 2020 as a summer intern covering Scottsdale. As an intern, she continued her coverage of Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Tempe. After graduating in 2022, Caroline became a full-time reporter for Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. She is currently reporting for the Tempe market.
Community: She is a supporter of the environment and tries to get involved with related community events.
Education: Arizona State University with a BA in Journalism and Mass Communications, with a minor in French.
Random Fact: She used to be a ballet dancer for 10 years.
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“I just really appreciate everything you’ve done for this community, everything you’ve done for each and every one of us. You’re an incredible person, you’re leaving a truly lasting legacy. We know this is not the end, but it’s only the beginning,” Mayor Woods said.
“As the fire chief, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the impact Capt. Jongewaard’s leadership has had on our union and the entire fire department for 25 years as a trustee and 11 years as our vice president,” Ruiz said.
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