The Town of Cary yesterday announced a new Fire Chief, with the promotion of Deputy Chief Michael W. Cooper as the new Chief of Department.
Chief Cooper succeeds longtime Fire Chief Allan Cain, who has been promoted to a new position of Public Safety Director.
This press release notes biographical information on both.
Chief Cooper (left) is a 31-year veteran of the fire service. He was hired in 2005 as an Assistant Chief, and promoted to Deputy Fire Chief last year. He’s also the fourth Fire Chief with a connection to Raleigh. See below.
Chief Cain (right) was hired in 1994 as Deputy Fire Chief, and promoted to Fire Chief in 2003. He’s also spent nearly 18 months holding the dual role of Fire Chief and Interim Planning Director.
The Cary/Raleigh Connection Continues
Chief Cooper is a former Raleigh Fire Captain. He’s now the fourth Cary Fire Chief with a connection to the Raleigh Fire Department.
Here’s the updated scorecard, which we last covered in this 2016 posting:
Chief Michael W. Cooper – 2018 to present
Former Raleigh Fire Captain, served city 1991 to 2005.
Hired as Asst. Chief in 2005.
Chief Ned K. Perry – 1975 to 1993
Former Raleigh Fire Captain, served city 1958 to 1975.
Also charter member of Raleigh Firemen’s Club, and first President of re-formed IAFF charter in 1969
Hired as Fire Chief in 1975.
Chief Clarence F. Ayscue – 1967 to 1968
Hired as Fire Chief in 1967.
Hired by City of Raleigh as a firefighter in 1968. Retired as Senior Firefighter in 1989.
Chief R. Lee Matthews – 1967
Retired Raleigh Asst. Chief, served city from 1926 to 1963.
Hired as Fire Chief in 1967.
He was also a volunteer member of CFD for years, and, I think, their training officer.