The Detroit Fire Department celebrated a significant milestone for their beloved Chief Chaplain George Aren, who turned 90 yesterday. As reported by FOX 2 Detroit, Aren has offered comfort and support to those affected by disasters, including the harrowing plane crash near Detroit Metro Airport in 1987 and the aftermath of 9/11 in New York City.
Aren has served the department since 1987, dedicating 22 years as chief chaplain. "The idea of me doing disaster work has only been mentioned to me on Friday morning and then Sunday night was flight 255 and that was my introduction into disaster," Aren told FOX 2 Detroit. The department honored Aren's service, recognizing not only his spiritual leadership but also the impact his mere presence had during times of crisis.
According to Detroit News, a surprise birthday gathering was organized, which family, colleagues, and several other chaplains attended. Aren's son, Major John Aren, conducted the Salvation Army band that played during the ceremony, which included Aren's granddaughter among its members. Despite reaching his 90th year, Aren remains "very much still on the job" and has expressed no intentions of stepping down from his role until at least September.
The celebration took place at the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters, where Aren witnessed the love and respect he has garnered, a sentiment echoed by his family, "We’ve always known that dad, grandpa is a pretty big deal, pretty special guy, very humble guy. He probably wouldn’t have come if he knew all of this was here," shared Jennifer Zahler, one of Aren's five children, as written by WXYZ. Reflecting on his nearly nine decades, Aren credits his work's vitality to the people he meets and assists, asserting that "Meeting people. There’s nothing like it. There’s nothing like meeting people and helping them in time of need," capturing the essence of his long-standing ministry and service.
