Chantilly, VA – The International Association of Fire Chiefs Foundation (IAFCF), committed to strengthening future leaders through higher education, is the proud recipient of a donation from the Darley Family Foundation in memory of Mr. William J. Darley and Chief Alan Brunacini. The donation will support education scholarships for members of the fire and emergency service.
Bill Darley served on the IAFC Foundation Board of Directors for many years. He was committed to advancing the fire service industry and those who served.
He leaves a legacy of love through family, friendships, charities and a family company. Many of his accomplishments are a testament to his strong work ethic, adventurous spirit, faith and commitment to his family and the W. S. Darley & Company, where he served as Chairman of the Board and CEO.
Bill was also president of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers' Association (FAMA) in the late 1980s and was involved with the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA). "Of all his successes, Bill is most known not by what he did, but who he was," FAMA and FEMSA said in a joint statement. "He was a friend to all—kind, humble, accepting, funny, and true—and he treated all as though he'd known them forever."
Alan Brunacini joined the Phoenix Fire Department in 1958. He served in every department position, was promoted to fire chief in 1978 and retired in 2006.
From his obituary in The Arizona Republic, "A gentle-hearted philosopher with a keen wit and kind disposition, his leadership creed was sincere, smart and simple: Prevent harm. Survive. Be nice. Bruno's primary focus was firefighter safety. Second only to that, he told his charges, take gentle care of our citizens. He was a dedicated advocate for "Mrs. Smith"—that's the name he chose to represent any fire-department customer. Treat Mrs. Smith with respect, he said. Be kind, show compassion."
“The Foundation thanks the Darley Family Foundation for its generous gift to honor the legacy of these two great men who gave so much to the fire service and who’s impact will be felt for many years to come,” said Anthony P. Campisi, IAFCF President and President/CEO of Glatfelter Insurance Group.
The IAFC Foundation provides scholarships that make it possible for fire and EMS first responders to access the advanced learning opportunities necessary to prepare for today’s world. The scholarship awards made by the IAFC Foundation impact the fire service and communities by providing first responders with the educational opportunities they need to lead the fire service and serve and protect our citizens.
For more information about the Foundation and to donate, please visit www.iafcf.org.
About the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials spills, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders.
