The 2025 NBA All-Star Game, held at the Chase Center in San Francisco, was full of memorable moments, but one stood out – Dennis Rodriguez, a Los Angeles City, CA Local 112 fire fighter and paramedic with the Los Angeles Fire Department, singing the national anthem.
“I’ve been with the LAFD for over 10 years, and I’ve been serving this community for 20 years, and having the opportunity to sing the national anthem at the All-Star Game was truly a dream come true,” Rodriguez said. “This moment wasn’t just about me — it’s about all the fire fighters and first responders who give their all every day.”
Rodriguez has performed at events all across California for the LAFD. When his name came up to perform, he didn’t hesitate to accept.
“It’s an incredible honor every time I’m asked to perform the anthem. To do it on such a big stage was amazing,” said Rodriguez.
Music has always been a part of his life. His father, a professional singer, inspired him to start performing at a young age. “I started playing the saxophone when I was 9,” said Rodriguez. “And that led to me singing on stage more seriously when I was 15.”
It’s an incredible honor every time I’m asked to perform the anthem. To do it on such a big stage was amazing.
Los angeles city, CA Local 112 fire fighter/paramedic dennis rodriguez
His love for music and connection with the fire service led him to this big moment. It started back in 2015 when a video of Rodriguez singing was shared around the LAFD.
“One of my classmates found a video of me performing, and it spread. Before I knew it, I was asked to sing the national anthem at the Academy,” said Rodriguez. “That’s when I became the unofficial, official national anthem singer for LAFD.”
So, when the opportunity came to perform at the NBA All-Star Game, it wasn’t the first time Rodriguez had sung in front of a large crowd, but it was definitely one of the biggest stages. “I was more excited than nervous,” he said. “I’ve performed the anthem in front of big events before, so I knew how to calm myself down. Once I got through the first verse, I was focused on delivering the best performance I could.”
Local 112 shared their pride on social media with a post of the performance writing, “This is something you don’t see every day! Great job, FF/PM Dennis Rodriguez!”
For Rodriguez, his music and firefighting careers have taught him the importance of connecting with people – whether it’s on a call or on stage.
“When you’re on stage, you can have the best singer in the world, but if they’re not engaging the audience or showing any enthusiasm, people will lose interest fast. It’s the same when I’m on a call. Even if I’m having a rough day, it doesn’t matter — I make sure I give my best on every call,” said Rodriguez.
