REST IN PEACE CAPTAIN BILL GUSTIN (The Secret List)

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All,

Horrible and deeply sad news from Florida this morning. Here is the message from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, with a brief personal comment below:

“It is with profound sorrow that Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (#MDFR) announces the untimely passing of Captain William “Bill” Gustin. A nearly 50-year veteran of the fire service, his legacy has left an indelible mark on firefighters across the county and around the world. His passing is a tremendous loss—not only for MDFR but also for the countless individuals he mentored, inspired, and shaped throughout his extraordinary career.”

“Captain Gustin dedicated his life to the fire service, beginning his journey in 1973 as a volunteer firefighter in the Chicago area. As a third-generation firefighter, he carried forward the proud legacy of his father and grandfather, who both served as officers in the Chicago Fire Department. In 1978, he joined MDFR, rising through the ranks to become a Lieutenant in 1983 and a Captain in 1986. For over thirty years, he led Engine 2—one of the busiest companies in the nation—with unwavering dedication and expertise.”

“Beyond his leadership on the fireground, Captain Gustin was a pillar of education and training in the fire service. He was a lead instructor for MDFR’s Officer Development Program, an educator at Miami-Dade College, and a driving force behind firefighter training programs across the United States and Canada. His expertise extended beyond our borders.”

“His influence stretched far beyond his immediate colleagues—he was a guiding light in the fire service community. As a contributing editor and technical advisor for Fire Engineering Magazine and a founding member of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Working Group, he played a critical role in shaping the standards and practices that keep firefighters safe today.”

“Captain Gustin was not only a mentor and teacher but also a hero. He was recognized by those in MDFR who exemplify his dedication to continuous learning and excellence. Capt. Gustin embodied the best of the fire service. He was a leader, a coach, a mentor, and above all, a friend. His legacy lives on in the thousands of firefighters he trained, the countless lives he touched, and the fire service he so dearly loved and transformed.”

“People who care are ready to help. No one should feel like they have to face their battles alone.”

“His loss leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his impact will be felt for generations. Let us honor his memory by carrying forward his passion for learning, dedication to safety, and deep love for the fire service.”

“Rest in peace, Captain Gustin. Your legacy will endure in every firefighter you trained, every life you touched, and every lesson you imparted. The fire service is stronger because of you, and your impact will resonate for years to come.” End.

On a personal note, I’ve been fortunate to be friends with Bill for many year…and my favorite part was when he would text me the following:

“Billy G, it’s your other Billy G-you have time for a call?”

I always had time, because any time with Bill Gustin was a gift. Bill defined what an “all in” “ate up” “gung ho” “night and day” Firefighter is, as well as an awesome human, brother, father and grandfather.

What a wonderful man who we will all sorely miss.

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