Firefighters in East Bay Pay Homage to Fallen Fremont Fire Chief

A Fremont fire chief who died after three-year battle with cancer was honored yesterday by fire and police officials as he was taken home to Tracy.

Deputy Fire Chief Jim Martin, who died on Friday, was escorted home in a solemn and touching procession from UCSF Medical Center to Tracy, according to Fremont Fire Division Chief Diane Hendry.

Firetrucks and fire personnel from the East Bay fire and police agencies were seen posted along the freeway overpasses along I-680 and I-580 midday on Monday.

“We were overwhelmed with support from our public safety friends,” Hendry said. “Fremont Police, CHP Golden Gate, UCSF Police, SFPD, SFFD, all assisted with escorting him home to Tracy. Oakland Fire, Alameda County Fire, Hayward Fire, Livermore Pleasanton Fire, and Tracy Fire all represented and honored Chief Martin by having at least one Engine or Truck on the overpasses as we drove below on the freeway. It was a real tribute to Chief Martin’s years of service, commitment and love for his career in public safety.”

Livermore Pleasanton Fire Battalion Chief Joe Testa said, “He was a great guy to partner with in Alameda County public safety.”

Martin’s cancer is being considered a line-of-duty death. Details of the memorial service for Martin will be announced soon, Hendry said.

Photo #1 courtesy Livermore Pleasanton Fire

Photo #2 & 3 courtesy Fremont Fire