One of the leading characters of the classic TV comedy “M*A*S*H” was Corporal Walter Eugene “Radar” O’Reilly. He was the quiet company clerk who was always one step ahead of Colonel Sherman T. Potter. Potter was barely able to complete a sentence without Radar finishing it for him. He had paperwork ready to be signed or the person on the phone even before Potter made the request. Radar, who was excellent at anticipating the needs of Colonel Potter and everyone else around him, kept the camp running efficiently.
In many ways, a chief’s aide in the fire service fulfills this same role. The chief’s aide is the chief’s right hand, often anticipating the chief’s needs before they are expressed. Just like Radar, the best chief’s aides don’t wait for instructions; they anticipate what’s needed next and act, keeping everything on track.
My experience as a chief’s aide
Early in my career, I was fortunate to serve as a battalion chief’s aide, an experience that greatly influenced my desire to become an officer in the fire service. Being an aide “on the car,” as it was referred to at the time, allowed me to see aspects of the department that many firefighters never encounter. From handling administrative duties to assisting the incident commander at large fires, this role gave me invaluable experience as an up-and-coming firefighter. Additionally, serving with a veteran battalion chief also gave me practical insight into navigating the department’s internal politics — a skill best acquired through direct experience.
My time as an aide broadened my perspective beyond the role of a typical firefighter and helped me better understand the department. I gained an insider’s view by interacting with a diverse group of company officers and firefighters, observing incident management alongside the battalion chief and receiving feedback from leadership. This experience helped me recognize personnel issues and their impact on the battalion, which later benefited my career. Firefighters primarily learn through experience, so working as an aide gives aspiring officers a unique training ground within the organization.
What is a chief’s aide?
Serving as a chief’s aide during emergency incidents is one of the most valuable learning experiences in the fire service. In this role, the aide works side by side with the IC in highly demanding situations. This allows the aide to observe how the IC processes large amounts of information and makes critical decisions.
Unfortunately, it’s common to find an IC overwhelmed at major events. Managing multiple responsibilities — such as assigning tactical objectives, coordinating radio communications and tracking company movements — can quickly become daunting, particularly as new challenges continue to arise. This is where the role of a chief’s aide proves invaluable, highlighting the importance of this position.
Fireground communications are critical to the success or failure of an incident. The chief’s aide is a vital part of this process, ensuring radio traffic between operating companies and the IC remains clear and effective. By handling radio traffic and allowing the chief or IC to stay focused on the bigger picture allows the event to flow smoothly and safely. The aide can also maintain tactical worksheets and capture when operating companies meet benchmarks.
Additionally, the chief’s aide can concentrate on crew accountability by maintaining awareness of each crew’s location and assignment. Depending on the organization’s size, the aide may also monitor which areas of the district are not covered and coordinate efforts to backfill those firehouses if another incident occurs. In many ways, the aide serves as the anchor of the command post — always staying informed and one step ahead.
Back in the office, the chief’s aide serves as the chief’s administrative right hand. The daily responsibilities involved in running the battalion or division are significant and require considerable effort to manage effectively. The aide plays a vital role in maintaining these operations — handling tasks such as staffing firehouses and providing direction in training. By supporting the chief, the aide helps ensure the organization’s demands are met.
What rank typically serves as a chief’s aide?
Traditionally, the chief’s aide position has been filled by a senior firefighter or company officer. Assigning a company officer to this role allows the chief to mentor that individual, preparing them to step into the chief’s position during leave or as they advance their own career. In larger cities, the role may be a full-time position supporting a battalion or deputy chief, which would be a company officer such as a lieutenant or captain.
Is certification required to be a chief’s aide?
In most organizations, the chief’s aide does not require a specific certification. Departments typically select those individuals best suited for the position, often with the goal of mentoring newer officers. The training required for officers also applies to the chief’s aide role. For example, if the department requires officers to undergo a Company Officer Development Program, this becomes the standard for its officers, too. However, the minimum recommendation is usually fundamental emergency training, such as ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 and department emergency vehicle operations, with individual departments determining exact requirements.
What skills does a chief’s aide need to be successful in the role?
A chief’s aide should demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills. The ability to multitask under pressure is essential, as they must remain focused on the needs of the incident during emergencies. Proficiency with records management systems, scheduling software and the department’s accountability system are also important to ensure efficient operations in the firehouse and on the incident scene.
Final thoughts
The chief’s aide plays a vital role in the office and at the scene of an emergency. By anticipating departmental needs and managing details, the aide enables the chief to focus on their leadership role. Much like Radar O’Reilly from “M*A*S*H,” an effective aide is a powerful silent force who always stays one step ahead.
