Captain Kevin Kennedy, Yuba City, CA Local 3793 president, and a fire fighter with more than 25 years of experience, shares a special bond with his son, Chase.
This father-son duo is making history as the first of their kind at the Yuba City Fire Department, displaying a legacy of commitment and a passion for firefighting.
“Chase just kind of decided on his own,” said Kevin. “When he was young, he would say, ‘I’m going to be a fire fighter,’ which lots of kids say. We would respond with, ‘Great, that is awesome. I hope you do well,’ and support him in whatever path he chooses.”
Kevin began his career on a significant day — Sept. 11, 2001.
He vividly remembers holding 3-month-old Chase while watching the tragic events of 9/11 unfold. This poignant memory has always tied his professional life closely with his family. Kevin’s path to firefighting started in ambulance services before securing a permanent position as a fire fighter in Yuba City. He now proudly watches two of his three sons — Chase and his older brother, Chris, a fire fighter in Sacramento County — as they follow in his footsteps.
“Growing up, I saw how my father provided for our family and what this job can do for you. It aligned perfectly with my values and what I wanted to do in life,” said Chase, who has been in the fire service for four years, spending three seasons with CAL FIRE.
Inspired by his father, Chase knew from an early age that he wanted to become a fire fighter. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a subdued graduation ceremony from the fire academy, he would later join his father, fulfilling a dream.
“When I was younger, I used to mention wanting to be a fire fighter a lot. It was largely because I looked up to my father a great deal back then,” said Chase. “However, as I grew older, I realized that many aspects of the job resonated well with my personal values and the principles my parents instilled in me.”
Following his dad’s example has been instrumental in his career choice, setting the scene for a long legacy of public service.
“It’s about embracing blue-collar hard work, the opportunity for decent earnings, and the avoidance of typical desk jobs. I prefer the kind of hands-on work that challenges our minds differently,” said Chase. “Observing how my father provided for our family through his firefighting career and the opportunities it afforded in life really struck a chord. Ultimately, it all just made sense to me.”