Renton Firefighters IAFF 864

05/10/2026

11 YEARS GOING STRONG.

Eleven years ago, our brother Donovan was battling cancer while still facing the same reality so many families do during times of crisis — life keeps moving. Mortgage payments, bills, home repairs, and everyday expenses don’t pause for hardship.

Wanting to help, a group came together to support Donovan and his family. But Donovan, being who he was, wanted something bigger than himself to come from it.

That vision became Lionhardt.

What started in honor of one firefighter, has grown into a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping first responders facing critical illnesses. Over the past 11 years, Lionhardt has continued to make a real difference for responders and their families during some of their hardest moments.

Donovan’s legacy lives on through every person helped, every family supported, and every reminder that no responder fights alone

Please give them a follow, learn more about their mission, and see how you can support those who have dedicated their lives to serving others.

We are Lionhardt

A May 28 "family fest" and touch-a-truck fundraiser will support a non-profit's mission to help first responders battling severe injuries and illnesses.

03/18/2026

PROMOTIONS

Local 864 would like to congratulate the following members on their recent promotions effective March 1st.

Robert Elliott - Lieutenant - Engine 16/B-Shift
David Braun - Engineer - Engine 17/D-Shift
Kristian Ramos - Engineer - Engine 16/B-Shift

Congratulations on your new positions with the gentlemen!

03/05/2026

Your Renton Firefighters are even trained to help our 4-legged friends when called upon! Thankfully everything worked out for the 🐕. Remember to be aware of the hazards while around the water.

✔ Safe pup - check!
Engine 311 and Water Rescue 312 were called earlier this morning to rescue a dog that had jumped into the Cedar River and became stranded. Crews were able to locate the pup, perform the rescue using an extension ladder, and safely reunite it with its owner.

02/06/2026

Retirement:

The members of Local 864 would like to say thank you and congratulations to Chaplain Loretta Green (Chaplain 11) on her retirement from the Renton Regional Fire Authority.

Loretta has been a steady, compassionate presence for our department and our community for years. As chaplain, she has walked alongside countless families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Offering comfort, guidance, and unwavering support when words were often hard to find. Her work was never easy, yet she carried it with grace, empathy, and strength every single time.

To our crews, Loretta was more than a chaplain — she was family. She checked in on us regularly, left encouraging notes on whiteboards, and even showed up with homemade pies just to brighten a long shift. She took the time to know our members personally, remembering names, stories, and milestones. After the hardest calls, when emotions ran high and exhaustion set in, she still made it a priority to stop by the station and make sure we were okay.

Day or night, Loretta answered callouts across Zone 3, often sacrificing her own time to ensure that families received the care and compassion they needed. Her final gesture before retirement — personalized handwritten notes to our members. This is a perfect reflection of who she is: thoughtful, selfless, and deeply committed to the people she serves.

Loretta, your impact on this department cannot be measured. You have comforted the grieving, uplifted the weary, and reminded us all of the importance of humanity in this profession. We are endlessly grateful for your years of service and your heart for others.

12/25/2025

On December 23rd our Union members shared their Christmas spirit with the community. Each year we partner with Communities In Schools Greater King County to make Christmas special for a few local families. This year we supported 8 families and delivered gifts in style! Santa and his merry band of elves personally made the deliveries which made the children extremely happy. Getting gifts from the big guy is always special. We want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Standard out there!

12/20/2025

Tough news out of Tacoma tonight. Washington State Patrol Officer Tara Guting was struck and killed by a car while working at a traffic accident scene. She was 13 months post academy and just starting her career when her life was taken tragically. A tough evening for our brothers and sisters in blue. Thinking of you all and her family tonight.

12/12/2025

The fire service lost a great man with a tremendous love of the job and his community. Mel and his legacy will be missed.

12/02/2025

Engineer Promotions:

We’re proud to recognize three of our Local 864 members on their advancement to Firefighter/Engineer. Operating the fire apparatus is a critical role requiring experience, competence, and trust—and these members have shown they’re up for the challenge. Each now carry the title of Engineer and will finish the year in temporary operational roles and officially move into their new assignments on January 1st. Congratulations and well done!

(L to R)
Tommy Horning - Engine 11/B-Shift
Ken Swinford - Engine 12/A-Shift
Lindsey Park - Ladder 11/A-Shift

11/12/2025

PROMOTION TIME!

Congratulations to the following Local 864 members on their hard earned promotions within the . After months of studying, practical exams, and interviews, Chief Heitman has selected these individuals to continue their careers in new positions.

Josh Downing - Captain - Engine 15/C-Shift
Hector Luevano - Lieutenant - Engine 15/D-Shift
Ben Thomas - Lieutenant - Engine 15/A-Shift
Daniel Yun - Lieutenant - Engine 16/B-Shift

11/05/2025

New Ride!🚑

Big day in downtown Renton! Aid 11 just placed a brand new aid car in service — ready to meet the high call volumes that keep our crews moving every day. Huge thanks to our RFA Administration & Governance Board for their continued support in maintaining a fleet that’s always ready and capable to serve the community.