In a celebration of lineage and service, the DeCarlo family marked a poignant moment at Columbus Fire Station 15 on Tuesday. Firefighter Carson DeCarlo, the latest bearer of a proud tradition, united with his father, Lieutenant Carmen DeCarlo, for a shift that could serve as their final partnership. Carson is set to embark overseas with the United States Army, and his father is eyeing retirement before his son's return, according to a social media post from the Columbus Division of Fire.
Firefighting isn't just a job but a legacy for the DeCarlos, with Carson being the third generation to run into burning buildings. His grandfather, Frank DeCarlo, retired from the same firehouse in 2008 but was present to jointly celebrate this last hoorah. "It was great. It's been a family tradition," Carmen DeCarlo told the Columbus Division of Fire. His hope is for Carson to "carries on the tradition for another 30 years."
Carson has always been clear on his ambitions and intent to uphold his family's firefighting heritage. "It’s just been something I’ve always wanted to do…. best job in the world,” he expressed. His father's advice, steeped in experience and a deep-rooted sense of duty, reflected the weight of this legacy. "Never stop learning about the job. Teach what you have learned to the next generation. Always lead by example and make yourself and those around you better every day," Carmen advised, as reported by the Columbus Division of Fire. "Be respectful and kind even at 4 AM, and most importantly, stay safe."
