Unalaska Career Fire Fighters Local 5315 is the IAFF’s newest Alaskan affiliate. Unalaska is the heaviest populated area of the state’s Aleutian Islands, located about 800 air miles south of Anchorage.
The fire department was previously a section of a public safety department but has since separated. The combination fire department responds to emergencies for year-round residents, as well as the seasonal population that comes in during fishing season.
“With the change, we knew we needed union representation thaht focuses on the needs of fire fighters and emergency medical personnel. The IAFF is the perfect fit,” says Local 5315 President Ben Knowles. “We are looking forward to connecting with other IAFF affiliates.”
Joining Knowles on the Local 5315 Executive Board is Secretary-Treasurer David Gibson.
