Chief Jack Brown

Jack Brown served the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District for 27 years, including 15 years as Assistant Fire Chief under Chief Ben Alexander. Following Chief Alexander's retirement in 1982, Jack was promoted to Acting Fire Chief, serving in that role for approximately ten months before stepping down due to increasing commitments with the American Legion. He continued to serve the department for two additional years as a Fire Inspector before retiring.

Known for his unwavering dedication, Jack spent countless hours at the fire station and was deeply committed to improving the department's emergency response capabilities. He became a Red Cross First Aid Instructor and was a member of the second paramedic class in Winnebago County, helping advance emergency medical services within the region.

Jack played an important role in the department's development, assisting with fundraising efforts that led to the purchase of the department's 1973 rescue truck. He was also instrumental in helping Roscoe and Rockton achieve Civil Defense certification and was a driving force behind acquiring the department's first radio system and radio tower, greatly enhancing emergency communications.

Outside of the fire service, Jack worked at a foundry in Beloit and served as a firefighter in the United States Navy, where he further developed the skills and experience that benefited the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District throughout his career.

Chief Brown's years of dedicated service, leadership, and commitment to advancing emergency medical care and communications helped prepare the department for continued growth and modernization, leaving a lasting impact on the organization and the community it serves.