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Rest in Peace: Chief Clark O. Martin Jr.

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My first apartment was near the NVCC Annandale campus.  Up the street lived Clark and Helen Martin.

Clark, a fellow county firefighter, came from Henrico County near Richmond, where his brother was a police officer. Helen worked as a nurse at Fairfax Hospital. Clark shared my buff-level fascination with all things firemantic.  During one vacation he found his way into a half-dozen San Francisco fire stations … until Helen complained.

LIVED FOR THE DETAILS

I never met someone as enamored with the details of a complex operation or procedure. While working in Communications he was a big part of the implementation of the 800 mHz radio system, CAD dispatch and the NOVA automatic aid procedures.  Clark is responsible for Fairfax County appropriating the PG “800″ COG radio IDs for Fairfax reserve rigs in the early days.

He always worked to improve operations. I was a company officer in Seven Corners, working a serious accident with injury, and Clark, as the dispatch center Uniform Fire Officer, was working the incident radio channel. He adding notations in the event history on the performance of the “radio bridge” during this automatic aid event.

Using wall-sized county fire box map, a sheet of steel, a bunch of magnets and Mylar labels, Clark built an Ouija board in the dispatch center. Every fire company in northern Virginia had a magnet. During midnight shifts the dispatch center would create major alarm events to see how that affected the balance of county coverage.

It provided great visual understanding of the impact of a multiple alarm event.  One night we applied the 1988 Los Angeles Interstate Bank fire and put it in Tyson’s Corners. Assuming the same staffing requirements, most of the northern Virginia fire companies would be on the fireground, along with some Montgomery County (Maryland) and District of Columbia fire companies.

Clark’s last assignment in Fairfax was the Special Operations Deputy Chief.

[photopress:MARTIN_web.jpg,full,pp_image]

INTO THE KEYS

Clark retired from Fairfax County in 2002 and was hired as the first county fire chief/director for Monroe County, Florida. It is the southmost county in the Keys.  This LINK takes you to a September 2002 interview

About three years ago, seeking treatment for fatigue, cancer was found. As the treatments became more extensive, his friends and colleagues were receiving emails from Clark, providing detailed reports of the disease, treatment and progress.  As the disease progressed, Clark had to resign from Monroe County.

They had to sell their dream house in Marathon and move to Jacksonville to be closer to the treatment center.  Clark wrote his 18th update in mid September and his ever-positive approach to battling “Mr. Adenocarcinoma” included a detailed description of the incident action plan (oops) patient treatment plan.

Unfortunately, tactics went from offensive to defensive.  Helen had to provide updates 19, 20, 21 and 22 that covered getting the chief home and arranging hospice assistance.   The battle ended yesterday.

Mike Ward

Posted by on November 2, 2008 • Filed under: commentary, Fire Rescue Topics • Tagged: , , ,
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  • Brad and Debbie Cochrane Sr (r

    .The first time I walked into a firehouse I knew that this was the brotherhood I wanted to be apart of. There are so many guys and women that have influenced me, and made my career exciting,fun, and at times very challenging. Clark Martin embodied everything good that when people inside and outside the Department, think what a firefighter should be both on and off duty. We were neighbors along time ago. My son, Brad jr. and I would always see Clark in the neighborhood with that big smile on his face, he was always very kind to us,that never changed. I think the people that are in our Department now should know that no matter what is right or wrong with the job, we have an obligation to the department, as well as to Clark to represent the Department as he did. He was an ambassator that we all can be very proud of. Helen, you and your family are surrounded by love , and though we can’t take the pain away, know that there is not a bother or sister in the fire sevice who knew Clark that isn’t hurting with you, and will be there for you and your family

  • Brad and Debbie Cochrane Sr (retired)

    .The first time I walked into a firehouse I knew that this was the brotherhood I wanted to be apart of. There are so many guys and women that have influenced me, and made my career exciting,fun, and at times very challenging. Clark Martin embodied everything good that when people inside and outside the Department, think what a firefighter should be both on and off duty. We were neighbors along time ago. My son, Brad jr. and I would always see Clark in the neighborhood with that big smile on his face, he was always very kind to us,that never changed. I think the people that are in our Department now should know that no matter what is right or wrong with the job, we have an obligation to the department, as well as to Clark to represent the Department as he did. He was an ambassator that we all can be very proud of. Helen, you and your family are surrounded by love , and though we can’t take the pain away, know that there is not a bother or sister in the fire sevice who knew Clark that isn’t hurting with you, and will be there for you and your family

  • Greg Bunch

    What do I say about Clark that has not already been said, except his trust and help, and a great love. I broke my leg back in the day while I was still playing in the minors, after working at FS23 and always seeing his “Blue Chevy Van”, with all those antenna’s on it coming out of Persimmom Drive on anything we ran. Then, on light duty, being assigned to “EOC”, Which it was back then, and having Clark assign me to Buddy Payne, Bill Seabloom on the midnight shift. I thought I was ging to die!! After the Bachleor’S Two fire, we became close freinds. I was the BIG GUY, the Truck “Buckies”, and he told me to make coffee…..I love Clark so much, and had dinner with him at Turtle Crawls a few years ago (On the Marina in Key West)……And that is my speaial time I remember with him. He helped me so much, sent me the right way, and his support. If we can all remember Clark’s attitude and support of one another, the honesty that he always compelled and genuine thoughts, we will be all well served.

  • http://Clark Greg Bunch

    What do I say about Clark that has not already been said, except his trust and help, and a great love. I broke my leg back in the day while I was still playing in the minors, after working at FS23 and always seeing his “Blue Chevy Van”, with all those antenna’s on it coming out of Persimmom Drive on anything we ran. Then, on light duty, being assigned to “EOC”, Which it was back then, and having Clark assign me to Buddy Payne, Bill Seabloom on the midnight shift. I thought I was ging to die!! After the Bachleor’S Two fire, we became close freinds. I was the BIG GUY, the Truck “Buckies”, and he told me to make coffee…..I love Clark so much, and had dinner with him at Turtle Crawls a few years ago (On the Marina in Key West)……And that is my speaial time I remember with him. He helped me so much, sent me the right way, and his support. If we can all remember Clark’s attitude and support of one another, the honesty that he always compelled and genuine thoughts, we will be all well served.

  • Chuck Marshall

    During my twenty seven year career with Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department I worked with many great officers. Some were great fire ground officers. Some were great station officers and “took care of the troops”. Some were great administrative officers and “knew the ropes”. There was a small, distinguished breed of officers, members of an elite club. I can’t say I met more than a handful in my career. These were the few that could do it all. They were administrators, personnel supervisors, fire ground work dogs that seemed to be everywhere on the fire ground all at once. They were the few you could work for who could chew your back side out for something you did wrong and then, five minutes later, sit down and eat dinner with you and the other troops and let you know it never happened. It was forgotten when you left his office. They were the few and rare breed of officers that Clark Martin was a standing member of throughout his career. You’d be hard pressed to find even one firefighter that worked with, cross shifts from or in a neighboring station that would say anything but praising words for Chief Martin. If for no other reason, I’ll miss his smile every morning over coffee. Sometimes, I wonder if Clark ever got up and just had a bad day at the fire station?

    Chuck Marshall
    Retired: January 1999

  • Chuck Marshall

    During my twenty seven year career with Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department I worked with many great officers. Some were great fire ground officers. Some were great station officers and “took care of the troops”. Some were great administrative officers and “knew the ropes”. There was a small, distinguished breed of officers, members of an elite club. I can’t say I met more than a handful in my career. These were the few that could do it all. They were administrators, personnel supervisors, fire ground work dogs that seemed to be everywhere on the fire ground all at once. They were the few you could work for who could chew your back side out for something you did wrong and then, five minutes later, sit down and eat dinner with you and the other troops and let you know it never happened. It was forgotten when you left his office. They were the few and rare breed of officers that Clark Martin was a standing member of throughout his career. You’d be hard pressed to find even one firefighter that worked with, cross shifts from or in a neighboring station that would say anything but praising words for Chief Martin. If for no other reason, I’ll miss his smile every morning over coffee. Sometimes, I wonder if Clark ever got up and just had a bad day at the fire station?

    Chuck Marshall
    Retired: January 1999

  • Frank Edwards

    I had the great pleasure of meeting Clark when we were both volunteers in Henrico County, Va. in 1972. He was in the process of leaving to go to Fairfax and I was just joining. However, through various other friends, we always knew how each was doing in the fire service. Any time after that, when I would see him, he would always treat me as if we were long lost friends. As everyone has already said, he was one in a million. He was the most positive, upbeat, and friendliest person I have ever met. He did not ever say anything negative about anyone, which is a very rare quality today. He had a great fire service career that he and his family should be proud of. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Helen, his kids and his entire family. He will always be remembered, and as evidenced by the outpouring here, he made a tremendous impact on so many people and was loved by a lot more people than he would have ever admitted to.

    Frank Edwards
    Chesterfield, Va. Fire and EMS (retired)
    Fire Chief – Pensacola, Florida

  • Frank Edwards

    I had the great pleasure of meeting Clark when we were both volunteers in Henrico County, Va. in 1972. He was in the process of leaving to go to Fairfax and I was just joining. However, through various other friends, we always knew how each was doing in the fire service. Any time after that, when I would see him, he would always treat me as if we were long lost friends. As everyone has already said, he was one in a million. He was the most positive, upbeat, and friendliest person I have ever met. He did not ever say anything negative about anyone, which is a very rare quality today. He had a great fire service career that he and his family should be proud of. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Helen, his kids and his entire family. He will always be remembered, and as evidenced by the outpouring here, he made a tremendous impact on so many people and was loved by a lot more people than he would have ever admitted to.

    Frank Edwards
    Chesterfield, Va. Fire and EMS (retired)
    Fire Chief – Pensacola, Florida

  • Mark Rohr

    It is a privelage to have know such a man as Clark. He truly believed that it was easier to smile than to frown and to be nice rather than mean and disrespectful to others. I met Clark in 1974 and we became very good friends. Not only did we make some regular buff trips throughout the region, we never missed a monthly trip to the Fairfax Chesapeake Bay Seafood House. Thats right, Clark, Eric Lamar, my brother Dave, and me used to hit that place hard about once a month. It was always a great time with Clark. He really cared about others, their families, and what was new in the FD. There will never be another man like Clark. Helen, I am honored to have known your husband for so long. Though it really hurts right now your kids should be so proud to read what others thought of him. He was such a friend and role model to so many of us. God bless you and your children Helen. Know that you are loved and will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
    Mark Rohr
    FXCO FRD
    BAT401-C

  • Mark Rohr

    It is a privelage to have know such a man as Clark. He truly believed that it was easier to smile than to frown and to be nice rather than mean and disrespectful to others. I met Clark in 1974 and we became very good friends. Not only did we make some regular buff trips throughout the region, we never missed a monthly trip to the Fairfax Chesapeake Bay Seafood House. Thats right, Clark, Eric Lamar, my brother Dave, and me used to hit that place hard about once a month. It was always a great time with Clark. He really cared about others, their families, and what was new in the FD. There will never be another man like Clark. Helen, I am honored to have known your husband for so long. Though it really hurts right now your kids should be so proud to read what others thought of him. He was such a friend and role model to so many of us. God bless you and your children Helen. Know that you are loved and will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
    Mark Rohr
    FXCO FRD
    BAT401-C

  • Charlie Wood

    I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Chief Clark Martin. Two instances I recall that exemplify the man I remember. At the Academy (then called the Training Center) Clark was one of the instructors for the introductory EMT training sessions. The enthusiasm, knowledge, and love of the FRD Clark projected was apparent immediately. Learning this seemingly complex subject and being introduced to a new way of delivering medical service was made easier by Clark’s teaching style. Later in my career Clark asked if I would fill in for him at EOC for a couple of days so he could spend time on Truck 8. He wanted to stay on top of his game. He will be missed.
    Thanks Mike Ward for giving us the opportunity to share these thoughts about such an outstanding human being and Firefighter. To Clark’s family, my prayers and thoughts are with you. May you find comfort in knowing Chief Clark Martin had such a positive influence on so many of us.

    Charlie Wood, Captain l, Retired
    FCFRD

  • Charlie Wood

    I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Chief Clark Martin. Two instances I recall that exemplify the man I remember. At the Academy (then called the Training Center) Clark was one of the instructors for the introductory EMT training sessions. The enthusiasm, knowledge, and love of the FRD Clark projected was apparent immediately. Learning this seemingly complex subject and being introduced to a new way of delivering medical service was made easier by Clark’s teaching style. Later in my career Clark asked if I would fill in for him at EOC for a couple of days so he could spend time on Truck 8. He wanted to stay on top of his game. He will be missed.
    Thanks Mike Ward for giving us the opportunity to share these thoughts about such an outstanding human being and Firefighter. To Clark’s family, my prayers and thoughts are with you. May you find comfort in knowing Chief Clark Martin had such a positive influence on so many of us.

    Charlie Wood, Captain l, Retired
    FCFRD

  • http://firegeezer.com/ William Sheehy,retired FXCO, A

    I have been reading the tremendous tribute being paid to Clark and couldn’t help but well up with tears. As this was happening I realized it wasn’t only his passing that saddened me. I was moved by the life he had led and how many times God must have smiled down upon such a quality man. He loved the fire service like no other. He stay positive when many of us succumbed to being negative. He led a clean life when many of us were tempted to excesses by peer pressure. He treated everyone with respect and equality. We both came to work in Oct.1973 and he was one of my last Chiefs in 1998 when I retired and I am blessed to have known him.

  • http://firegeezer.com William Sheehy,retired FXCO, Active Lt. Baltimore City Fire Dept.

    I have been reading the tremendous tribute being paid to Clark and couldn’t help but well up with tears. As this was happening I realized it wasn’t only his passing that saddened me. I was moved by the life he had led and how many times God must have smiled down upon such a quality man. He loved the fire service like no other. He stay positive when many of us succumbed to being negative. He led a clean life when many of us were tempted to excesses by peer pressure. He treated everyone with respect and equality. We both came to work in Oct.1973 and he was one of my last Chiefs in 1998 when I retired and I am blessed to have known him.

  • Brad Cochrane Jr.

    I remember seeing Clark around our neighborhood in Burke back in the mid-80’s when I was a teenager. He seemed like a genuinely friendly guy who was always smiling. I could tell that my father liked him, and that was all the endorsement that I needed. After I was hired in the early 90’s, our paths crossed a few times when I was a rookie, and my feeling was that he thought that it was pretty cool that “Brad’s son” had gotten on with the department. I read his courageous updates from afar, truly in awe of his strength and positive attitude throughout the battle. I keep my FXCO fire department “yearbook” close at hand, and I consult it frequently to remind myself of some of my favorite personalities and role models over the years. Some have passed on, some have retired, and many have posted to this thread. Clark is certainly among them. RIP Chief Martin, thank you for setting the bar high, and reminding us all that brotherhood is not just a cliché in the fire service.

  • Brad Cochrane Jr.

    I remember seeing Clark around our neighborhood in Burke back in the mid-80’s when I was a teenager. He seemed like a genuinely friendly guy who was always smiling. I could tell that my father liked him, and that was all the endorsement that I needed. After I was hired in the early 90’s, our paths crossed a few times when I was a rookie, and my feeling was that he thought that it was pretty cool that “Brad’s son” had gotten on with the department. I read his courageous updates from afar, truly in awe of his strength and positive attitude throughout the battle. I keep my FXCO fire department “yearbook” close at hand, and I consult it frequently to remind myself of some of my favorite personalities and role models over the years. Some have passed on, some have retired, and many have posted to this thread. Clark is certainly among them. RIP Chief Martin, thank you for setting the bar high, and reminding us all that brotherhood is not just a cliché in the fire service.

  • Chris Hunter

    Clark was a geniune man. He was a good boss and a good friend. I’m thankful for having the opportunity to work with him over the years in Fairfax County. I’ll cherish the memories. We’ll certainly miss him.

  • Chris Hunter

    Clark was a geniune man. He was a good boss and a good friend. I’m thankful for having the opportunity to work with him over the years in Fairfax County. I’ll cherish the memories. We’ll certainly miss him.

  • http://fairfaxcounty.gov/ Dan Schmidt

    What an outstanding human being; good to the core. I remember one hot August evening when Clark was the A-shift deputy–multiple lightning fires broke out. As the PIO, we both went from fire to fire, with the media in tow. He spoke to the media with eloquence on good or bad news. He had this unique knack in always finding the best in things; including people. He was truly a gift to all of us. I know we are all better off for having known Clark. Helen, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Dan Schmidt
    Public Affairs and Life Safety Education
    Fairfax Fire and Rescue

  • http://fairfaxcounty.gov Dan Schmidt

    What an outstanding human being; good to the core. I remember one hot August evening when Clark was the A-shift deputy–multiple lightning fires broke out. As the PIO, we both went from fire to fire, with the media in tow. He spoke to the media with eloquence on good or bad news. He had this unique knack in always finding the best in things; including people. He was truly a gift to all of us. I know we are all better off for having known Clark. Helen, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Dan Schmidt
    Public Affairs and Life Safety Education
    Fairfax Fire and Rescue

  • Mike Edgerton

    I too worked with Chief Martin in Monroe County as his Training Officer at our Fire Academy following Keith Cortner,under the direction of Bat. Chief Rob Low and our commitment to Chief Martin was to have a Fire Academy that was top notch, and believe we made great changes for our team.

    Chief Martin was a class act and will be missed dearly.

    Mike Edgerton,
    Monroe County Fire Rescue
    Firefighter/EMT /Instructor
    Station 22

  • Mike Edgerton

    I too worked with Chief Martin in Monroe County as his Training Officer at our Fire Academy following Keith Cortner,under the direction of Bat. Chief Rob Low and our commitment to Chief Martin was to have a Fire Academy that was top notch, and believe we made great changes for our team.

    Chief Martin was a class act and will be missed dearly.

    Mike Edgerton,
    Monroe County Fire Rescue
    Firefighter/EMT /Instructor
    Station 22

  • Dave Diamantes

    They say that you are known by the company you keep. We’re all better for the time we got to spend with Clark.

  • Dave Diamantes

    They say that you are known by the company you keep. We’re all better for the time we got to spend with Clark.

  • Cab Bentley

    I served under Chief Martin as a “brand new” Battalion Chief, during his tenure with Monroe County Fire Rescue. He provided kind guidence and fatherly type leadership while I found my stride.

    Chief Martin was very humble. One afternoon in 2004, while returning from a F.D. meeting a call went out for a person in distress, in danger of falling off a second / third story roof. Realizing he was close to the call, he arrived quickly and ran to the balcony and pulled the person to safety (saving a life). When the first apparatus arrived, he gave a quick report and continued his commute.

    On many occasions I received cell phone calls from Chief Martin, shortly after radio traffic I had made during various fire calls. He would provide me with alternatives and critique immediately after the calls were completed. I found myself slowing down and and being much more thoughtful before reacting. I told him many times I was grateful for his mentoring.

    Clark always treated everyone with kindness and respect, however, would provide clear and steady leadership when needed. I am a better person for knowing him and continue to see the fruits of his labor. My family and I will miss him and send all our thoughts and prayers to Helen and his children.

    Oh’ Captain My Captain…

  • Cab Bentley

    I served under Chief Martin as a “brand new” Battalion Chief, during his tenure with Monroe County Fire Rescue. He provided kind guidence and fatherly type leadership while I found my stride.

    Chief Martin was very humble. One afternoon in 2004, while returning from a F.D. meeting a call went out for a person in distress, in danger of falling off a second / third story roof. Realizing he was close to the call, he arrived quickly and ran to the balcony and pulled the person to safety (saving a life). When the first apparatus arrived, he gave a quick report and continued his commute.

    On many occasions I received cell phone calls from Chief Martin, shortly after radio traffic I had made during various fire calls. He would provide me with alternatives and critique immediately after the calls were completed. I found myself slowing down and and being much more thoughtful before reacting. I told him many times I was grateful for his mentoring.

    Clark always treated everyone with kindness and respect, however, would provide clear and steady leadership when needed. I am a better person for knowing him and continue to see the fruits of his labor. My family and I will miss him and send all our thoughts and prayers to Helen and his children.

    Oh’ Captain My Captain…

  • Dean Sherick

    To Helen and the family,

    I was greatly saddened to read that Clark had lost his battle with cancer. I will always remember the times that were spent in recruit school and across the years in the Department. He was a superb firefighter, a calm enduring leader and a person who always seemed to find the positives in whatever was going on. I will always think of him when I get out my “Island shirt” which I bought especially for his retirement party. Clark did many great things here as he worked in mysterious ways, maintained a low profile and made things happen! Thanks to Brother Mike for putting together the tribute and to all who have echoed my sentiments and feelings of this loss. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.

    Dean Sherick
    Fairfax County Fire and Rescue

  • Dean Sherick

    To Helen and the family,

    I was greatly saddened to read that Clark had lost his battle with cancer. I will always remember the times that were spent in recruit school and across the years in the Department. He was a superb firefighter, a calm enduring leader and a person who always seemed to find the positives in whatever was going on. I will always think of him when I get out my “Island shirt” which I bought especially for his retirement party. Clark did many great things here as he worked in mysterious ways, maintained a low profile and made things happen! Thanks to Brother Mike for putting together the tribute and to all who have echoed my sentiments and feelings of this loss. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.

    Dean Sherick
    Fairfax County Fire and Rescue

  • http://companionway.net/ Geoff McNamara

    Clark was an exceptional human – with the emphasis on human. Always a smile, nothing but the positive, constantly the professional mixed with a healthy dose of humility. A model for all of his brothers and sisters.

    My prayers to his family. He is, and will always will be one of the finest. We are all better for having the opportunity to have a friendship with him.

    Geoff McNamara
    Fairfax County Fire and Rescue

    PS. Mike, thank you – again.

  • http://companionway.net Geoff McNamara

    Clark was an exceptional human – with the emphasis on human. Always a smile, nothing but the positive, constantly the professional mixed with a healthy dose of humility. A model for all of his brothers and sisters.

    My prayers to his family. He is, and will always will be one of the finest. We are all better for having the opportunity to have a friendship with him.

    Geoff McNamara
    Fairfax County Fire and Rescue

    PS. Mike, thank you – again.

  • David L. Prohaska

    Helen and family,
    I too had the priviledge to work with Chief Clark while assigned to station 26. I will always remember his smile, calm and pleasant demeanor. Thank-you for sharing him with all of us in the fire service through the years! We will miss him dearly, God bless you, were sending our thoughts, prayers,love and support always!!!

  • David L. Prohaska

    Helen and family,
    I too had the priviledge to work with Chief Clark while assigned to station 26. I will always remember his smile, calm and pleasant demeanor. Thank-you for sharing him with all of us in the fire service through the years! We will miss him dearly, God bless you, were sending our thoughts, prayers,love and support always!!!

  • Tom Flores Sr

    I have fond memories of Clark from his earlier years at Fairfax. Clark was always level headed and had the rare gift of treating everyone as an equal and a friend. He was a mentor and his service to Fairfax set the bar high.
    He will be missed and be a valued memory of someone who was an inspiration and guide on how to be.

    Tom Flores Sr
    Fairfax County Fire & Rescue
    (Retired)

  • Tom Flores Sr

    I have fond memories of Clark from his earlier years at Fairfax. Clark was always level headed and had the rare gift of treating everyone as an equal and a friend. He was a mentor and his service to Fairfax set the bar high.
    He will be missed and be a valued memory of someone who was an inspiration and guide on how to be.

    Tom Flores Sr
    Fairfax County Fire & Rescue
    (Retired)

  • Mark Wheatley

    When Helen’s poignant message went out last Saturday, all of us who were privleged to be part of Clark’s extended family stopped and took pause. Almost instantly, a flood of memories made me realize what a remarkable person Clark was.
    Many of us remember him through our fire service affiliations and all he brought to the profession. But just as impresive as were his professional achievements, Clark was an even more impressive human being. Always compassionate, always energetic, always optomistic. Regradless of how he came into our lives, he made it hard to call him anything but Clark, because above all else, he was so easy to be our friend. Clark was quite simply one of the classiest folks I have had the privlege of knowing.
    Now there is an empty place in our profession and our hearts. While we have lost a great friend, Helen our heart felt sympathies go out to you, your kids and Clark’s family. We miss him beyond words.

  • Mark Wheatley

    When Helen’s poignant message went out last Saturday, all of us who were privleged to be part of Clark’s extended family stopped and took pause. Almost instantly, a flood of memories made me realize what a remarkable person Clark was.
    Many of us remember him through our fire service affiliations and all he brought to the profession. But just as impresive as were his professional achievements, Clark was an even more impressive human being. Always compassionate, always energetic, always optomistic. Regradless of how he came into our lives, he made it hard to call him anything but Clark, because above all else, he was so easy to be our friend. Clark was quite simply one of the classiest folks I have had the privlege of knowing.
    Now there is an empty place in our profession and our hearts. While we have lost a great friend, Helen our heart felt sympathies go out to you, your kids and Clark’s family. We miss him beyond words.

  • Barbara Schirmacher

    Clarke was one of the most caring and sincere people I have met during my career. Always willing to help out. Always professional. Treated everyone as a friend. He will truly be missed.

  • Barbara Schirmacher

    Clarke was one of the most caring and sincere people I have met during my career. Always willing to help out. Always professional. Treated everyone as a friend. He will truly be missed.

  • Howard Timmoms

    I don’t know what to say that hasn’t been said. Clark was one of those people that everyone liked. Clark treated everyone equal, it didn’t matter where you were in the ranks.
    I first meant Clark when he took over the Apparatus section, for a short time, between Ed Plaugher and Jack Brown. It didn’t take long to tell that he was a class act, but I should’t say act because it was no act, it was his way.
    Helen, I know that all the kind words in thw world will not bring Clark back. But to know that he was loved and respected by so many may ease the pain to some degree. We all suffer the loss just knowing that he is not here with us. Just keep in mind that a time will come when we will all be with our loved ones again.
    Thanks Mike for the opportunity to express our feeling of our friend.

  • Howard Timmoms

    I don’t know what to say that hasn’t been said. Clark was one of those people that everyone liked. Clark treated everyone equal, it didn’t matter where you were in the ranks.
    I first meant Clark when he took over the Apparatus section, for a short time, between Ed Plaugher and Jack Brown. It didn’t take long to tell that he was a class act, but I should’t say act because it was no act, it was his way.
    Helen, I know that all the kind words in thw world will not bring Clark back. But to know that he was loved and respected by so many may ease the pain to some degree. We all suffer the loss just knowing that he is not here with us. Just keep in mind that a time will come when we will all be with our loved ones again.
    Thanks Mike for the opportunity to express our feeling of our friend.

  • John Price Jr.

    I had the pleasure to work around Clark many times during my career. He was a very fair person and I have many fond memories of him dating back to the early 80′s. I was saddened to hear he passed away. It always seems the only thing people remember after we leave this life is how you treated people. No one really cares about much else. Clark Martin treated people with respect and dignity and will be missed.

    Mike, thanks for putting this together…

    John Price
    Fire Prevention Division
    Fairfax Fire/Rescue

  • John Price Jr.

    I had the pleasure to work around Clark many times during my career. He was a very fair person and I have many fond memories of him dating back to the early 80′s. I was saddened to hear he passed away. It always seems the only thing people remember after we leave this life is how you treated people. No one really cares about much else. Clark Martin treated people with respect and dignity and will be missed.

    Mike, thanks for putting this together…

    John Price
    Fire Prevention Division
    Fairfax Fire/Rescue

  • http://Hillbillyfire.com/ Richard Walthall

    To Helen, Cassie, and Trey,

    There are no words that I can say about Clark that you don’t already know about him, having had his total love and devotion as a husband and a father. He instilled in you his love for life and the way to live that life. He was always so proud of the kids and their accomplishments. But that is what he has as a legacy, that Cassie and Trey are great people with all his and Helen’s attributes.

    Augie and I became friends in 1973 and in that multi-antenaed blue Chevy van we buffed the East coast from Persimmon Drive,Fairfax north to Boston. Fred Taylor ( Henrico Co. ), Clark, and myself went on an 8 day buff to Boston for 4 days and NY for 4 days. Nothing happened in Boston besides the ice cream at the HOJO’S underneath the Bosstun dispatch center window. It was June 76 and conflagration warnings were out. All we got in on was a train that was sparking brush fires as it was headed to NH. But we caught a job in Providence, RI on the way to the CITY. Clark had mapped out in detail ( imagine that ) our best place to stay and access to the GW bridge for optimal response to all the boroughs with breakneck speed. Thank goodness for the Alexander Mapping Co too. Well Fred can tell you we hit the mother load for fire in the Bronx meeting up with a dispatcher that was a super buff. He took us into the south Bronx and we saw 6 story buildings burn down and burn up. We went to battery park and out on the fire boat John D. McKean on a call and then they were trying an experiment on the way back and we discovered how they made the red and blue water for the Tall Ships that visited the harbor a week later on Bicentenial July 4th. Amazing what 55 gallon drums of food coloring and a foam eductor can do. We shot more Kodak film, slides, and movies than a AP photographer. Did you know that we had a source in Baltimore to call us when the abandoned Camden Yards building caught fire? We knew it would be a TEN ALARMER. Of course the Orioles would not of had such a nice ballpark if it had ever happened. I have such great memories about Clark and all that he was that I will truly miss his comraderie, humor, smile, and love for life.

    He was truly the greatest.

    Richard Walthall
    FXCO 73-79
    Hillbillyfire.com

  • http://Hillbillyfire.com Richard Walthall

    To Helen, Cassie, and Trey,

    There are no words that I can say about Clark that you don’t already know about him, having had his total love and devotion as a husband and a father. He instilled in you his love for life and the way to live that life. He was always so proud of the kids and their accomplishments. But that is what he has as a legacy, that Cassie and Trey are great people with all his and Helen’s attributes.

    Augie and I became friends in 1973 and in that multi-antenaed blue Chevy van we buffed the East coast from Persimmon Drive,Fairfax north to Boston. Fred Taylor ( Henrico Co. ), Clark, and myself went on an 8 day buff to Boston for 4 days and NY for 4 days. Nothing happened in Boston besides the ice cream at the HOJO’S underneath the Bosstun dispatch center window. It was June 76 and conflagration warnings were out. All we got in on was a train that was sparking brush fires as it was headed to NH. But we caught a job in Providence, RI on the way to the CITY. Clark had mapped out in detail ( imagine that ) our best place to stay and access to the GW bridge for optimal response to all the boroughs with breakneck speed. Thank goodness for the Alexander Mapping Co too. Well Fred can tell you we hit the mother load for fire in the Bronx meeting up with a dispatcher that was a super buff. He took us into the south Bronx and we saw 6 story buildings burn down and burn up. We went to battery park and out on the fire boat John D. McKean on a call and then they were trying an experiment on the way back and we discovered how they made the red and blue water for the Tall Ships that visited the harbor a week later on Bicentenial July 4th. Amazing what 55 gallon drums of food coloring and a foam eductor can do. We shot more Kodak film, slides, and movies than a AP photographer. Did you know that we had a source in Baltimore to call us when the abandoned Camden Yards building caught fire? We knew it would be a TEN ALARMER. Of course the Orioles would not of had such a nice ballpark if it had ever happened. I have such great memories about Clark and all that he was that I will truly miss his comraderie, humor, smile, and love for life.

    He was truly the greatest.

    Richard Walthall
    FXCO 73-79
    Hillbillyfire.com

  • Valli Finney

    Clark,
    In the couple of years I was in the Keys, you were always a great man of his word. I was sorry to hear of your passing, but know that you put up a heck of a fight. You are in heaven now, looking down upon all of your brothers, friends and family.
    Godspeed to you.
    Valli,
    former editor/Marathon-Big Pine Free Press.

  • Valli Finney

    Clark,
    In the couple of years I was in the Keys, you were always a great man of his word. I was sorry to hear of your passing, but know that you put up a heck of a fight. You are in heaven now, looking down upon all of your brothers, friends and family.
    Godspeed to you.
    Valli,
    former editor/Marathon-Big Pine Free Press.

  • http://firegeezer.com/ FossilMedic

    A memorial service will be held December 5, 4:00 PM, Burke Presbyterian Church, Burke, Virginia with a reception following the service. Helen would like to thank the countless friends and firefighters for their faithful support during Clark’s illness.

    In lieu of flowers, contributions in Clark’s memory may be sent to either the Firefighters’ Fund of Fairfax County, P.O. Box 401, Fairfax, VA 22038-0401; or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2141 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 7000, El Segundo, CA 90245; or Northeast Florida Community Hospice, 4266 Sunbeam Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257.

    Note from Mike Ward:

    There is a call for pictures of Clark that will be displayed at the reception. If you have pictures to share, please contact Eric Lamar elamar@iaff.org. Eric is coordinating this memorial for the Martin family.

    Thanks for those who have posted their reflections on the tribute.

  • http://firegeezer.com FossilMedic

    A memorial service will be held December 5, 4:00 PM, Burke Presbyterian Church, Burke, Virginia with a reception following the service. Helen would like to thank the countless friends and firefighters for their faithful support during Clark’s illness.

    In lieu of flowers, contributions in Clark’s memory may be sent to either the Firefighters’ Fund of Fairfax County, P.O. Box 401, Fairfax, VA 22038-0401; or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2141 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 7000, El Segundo, CA 90245; or Northeast Florida Community Hospice, 4266 Sunbeam Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257.

    Note from Mike Ward:

    There is a call for pictures of Clark that will be displayed at the reception. If you have pictures to share, please contact Eric Lamar elamar@iaff.org. Eric is coordinating this memorial for the Martin family.

    Thanks for those who have posted their reflections on the tribute.

  • Joe Kameros

    Helen has set up a donation page with the Pancreatic Action Network through Firstgiving in Memory of her beloved Clark.

    Here is the direct link to Helen’s page:

    http://www.firstgiving.com/helenmartin

    You can donate online.
    All donations are secure and sent
    directly to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network by Firstgiving, who will email you
    a printable record of your donation.

  • Joe Kameros

    Helen has set up a donation page with the Pancreatic Action Network through Firstgiving in Memory of her beloved Clark.

    Here is the direct link to Helen’s page:

    http://www.firstgiving.com/helenmartin

    You can donate online.
    All donations are secure and sent
    directly to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network by Firstgiving, who will email you
    a printable record of your donation.

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