Fire Chief Henry Allen commended for 35 years of service

BY VICTOR INGE

THE SELMA TIMES-JOURNAL

Labor Day was designated a national holiday by Congress in 1884 to celebrate the work ethic that made America great. There may be no better example locally than that of Henry Allen, Selma’s fire chief.

Chief Allen started out at the bottom and worked his way to the top. His firefighters say he’s &8220;a classic.&8221;

Selma’s first African American firefighter has been the fire chief since July 1, 1995. He was recently honored with his 35-year service pin and a certificate. He received a rousing ovation before a packed City Council chamber when Mayor James Perkins Jr. recognized his accomplishment, wrapped in a &8220;thank you.&8221;

That understanding, along with his faith, is what Allen said has carried him through the years. The young firefighters that have come up through the ranks think it’s more than that.

Perkins said he believes Allen’s &8220;steady pace&8221; has attributed to his longevity.