Episode 24: Ed Wilmarth
In Episode 24 of The Volly House Podcast, we welcome Chief Ed Wilmarth, a respected figure in the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department (BCVFD), the oldest volunteer fire department in Queens and one of the oldest in New York City. With decades of service as both Chief Engineer and past Chief, Ed has built a legacy grounded in service, mentorship, and community pride.
With over 25 years in the department and a deep family history of volunteer firefighting, Chief Wilmarth represents the heart of what it means to serve — not for glory, but for love of the job and dedication to your neighbors.
Rooted in Tradition: The Spirit of Volunteer Firefighting
Chief Wilmarth’s story is closely tied to the rich history of the Broad Channel VFD, which has served its island community since the early 1900s. That sense of tradition isn’t just in the department's history — it lives on through members like Ed, who’ve made it their mission to keep the culture strong.
Family Legacy: Three generations of Wilmarths have served in the BCVFD, passing down lessons, stories, and a deep respect for the uniform.
A Labor of Love: For Chief Wilmarth, and for many others in volunteer departments, firefighting isn’t just a role — it’s a choice to serve without pay, to train after hours, and to show up when your community needs you most.
Leadership by Example
Chief Wilmarth leads with his boots on the ground. Whether it’s rolling hose or mentoring a junior member, he believes in being present and engaged at every level.
Earned Respect: True leadership, as he explains, comes from consistency, humility, and doing the work right alongside your team.
Building Trust: In small communities like Broad Channel, your department’s reputation is everything. That trust is earned by showing up — again and again — when the pager tones drop.
Investing in the Future: One of Chief Wilmarth’s biggest priorities is training and supporting the next wave of firefighters, ensuring the department is always ready and resilient.
Training, Mutual Aid & Community Partnerships
Chief Wilmarth emphasizes the need for rigorous training and strong coordination across agencies. In a borough like Queens — where volunteer companies often back up career departments — seamless cooperation is key.
Ongoing Drills: From basic engine operations to joint mutual aid evolutions, his department trains regularly to stay sharp.
Mutual Aid Readiness: Working side-by-side with other volunteer and FDNY companies requires strong relationships, clear communication, and a shared playbook.
All-Hazards Preparedness: Whether it’s responding to fires, medical calls, or natural disasters, the BCVFD under Wilmarth’s leadership has remained a ready and reliable partner.
Carrying the Torch Forward
Chief Wilmarth reminds us that every firehouse has a legacy — but keeping that legacy alive takes work. He shares how leadership isn't just about making decisions on the fireground — it’s about preserving traditions, building camaraderie, and ensuring the department thrives for years to come.
Pride in History: Honoring those who came before is part of what motivates his leadership style.
Mentorship as a Responsibility: Every firefighter, in his view, should be looking for ways to pass their experience to someone else.
A Culture of Consistency: Success isn’t flashy — it’s showing up, staying disciplined, and doing the little things right over time.
Top Takeaways from Chief Ed Wilmarth
🔥 Volunteer service is a commitment rooted in pride, not paycheck
🔥 The strongest leaders lead from the front, not behind a desk
🔥 Trust is built through presence, not promises
🔥 Community relationships matter as much as tactics
🔥 Tradition fuels identity — and identity fuels performance
🎧 Listen to Episode 24 now on all major platforms
💬 Connect with us or share your thoughts at vollyhousepodcast.com or @VollyHousePodcast on social media
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