Lakewood Professional Firefighters and Fire Officers, FMBA 80 & 280

09/09/2026

07/07/2026

Today, the officers and members of FMBA Locals 80 & 280 mourn the loss of one of our own, former Lakewood Fire Department Chief Richard “Dick” Wallace.

Chief Wallace dedicated his life to serving both his country and his community. After proudly serving in the United States Air Force, he joined the Lakewood Fire Department in 1963 as a volunteer and went on to become one of the department’s original career firefighters, proudly serving his entire career as a member of FMBA Local 80. He also continued to volunteer while off duty, demonstrating a level of commitment to the fire service that few could match.

Dick was more than a Chief—he was a mentor, a leader, and a firefighter who helped shape the Lakewood Fire Department into what it is today. Whether serving as Chief of Department, rising through every rank of Volunteer Engine Company #1, or protecting New Jersey’s forests as a Fire Warden, he led by example and earned the respect of everyone who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

His legacy will live on through the generations of firefighters he influenced and the countless lives he touched throughout his decades of dedicated service.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Wallace family, his brothers and sisters of the Lakewood Fire Department, and all who knew and loved him.

Rest easy, Chief Wallace. Thank you for your lifetime of service and sacrifice.

Photos courtesy of Lakewood Scoop

10/04/2025

08/01/2025

07/22/2025

After a 2 alarm fire this morning members were thanked for their service by a grateful resident.

06/25/2025

🚨 Busy Week for Lakewood Fire Department 🚨

Since 12:00 AM Sunday, Lakewood Fire Department has responded to 113 emergency calls — a significant surge in activity due to recent severe weather.

📟 Our calls included:
• Multiple motor vehicle accidents
• Numerous power outage-related incidents
• Two brush fires
• And overturned 3,000-gallon tanker truck on Route 9 with Hazmat

We’re proud of the tireless work our firefighters continue to do around the clock to keep our community safe.

As always, stay alert, stay safe, and remember — it’s okay to love the job. 🔥🚒