05/31/2026
On Wednesday, Clark County Fire District 3 recognized Battalion Chief Dave O'Brien as he completed his final shift and retires officially today after an extraordinary 39-year career in the fire service, including 31 years dedicated to serving the citizens and emergency responders of Clark County.
For Dave, this journey began right here at Fire District 3 in 1987 as a volunteer firefighter. As he shared during his retirement remarks, it all started when his father approached then-Fire Chief Don Breakey and asked him to give a young man looking for direction an opportunity to spend time around the fire station. What began as a chance to hang around the firehouse became a lifelong calling.
That calling would take Dave across the West, serving as a paramedic and flight medic in Las Vegas before returning home to Clark County, where he served with North Country EMS and Fire District 13. In 2005, he returned to Fire District 3 as the district's first full-time paramedic, helping build and strengthen the Advanced Life Support (ALS) program that continues to serve our community today. He was promoted to Battalion Chief in 2006 and has remained a trusted leader, mentor, and steady presence ever since.
In addition to his local service, Dave has been heavily involved in the wildland fire community and currently serves as a Medical Unit Leader with Northwest Incident Management Team 2, supporting firefighters and communities throughout the region during some of their most challenging times.
While his accomplishments are impressive, those who know Dave understand that his greatest contribution has always been the way he cared for people. As Fire Chief Chris Drone noted during the ceremony:
"He's been steady, dependable, humble, and the kind of leader who never needed the spotlight to make a difference. A lot of what he's contributed over the years happened quietly, behind the scenes, just taking care of people and taking care of the job."
Dave's retirement marks the end of an incredible career, but also the completion of a remarkable full-circle journey. Reflecting on where it all began, Dave shared:
"I couldn't be happier to finish it here after traveling the West and spending time in Vegas and spending time up at North Country. It's been a full circle for sure."
When asked what he will miss most, his answer was simple:
"I'm going to miss the people the most."
Before concluding his remarks, Dave left one final piece of advice for the firefighters and officers who will follow in his footsteps:
"This is the best job you could have. I don't think there's a better job. But don't make it your identity. Enjoy it, but also enjoy the time away from here too, because those things are important, if not more important."
Few careers leave a lasting imprint on an organization, a profession, and a community. Dave's is one of them.
Battalion Chief O'Brien, thank you for your leadership, your humility, your mentorship, and your unwavering commitment to the people of Clark County. Fire District 3 is better because of your service, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside you.
Congratulations on your retirement. You've earned it!
