In Memory

The Inaugural John P. Norris Jr. Memorial First Responder Health & Wellness Symposium is being established to honor the legacy of
Chief John P. Norris Jr., who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on November 25, 2023.
 

 

Chief Norris was a dedicated 32-year veteran of the Houston Fire Department, where he served as a paramedic and junior captain. Additionally, he was a 20-year member of the Forest Bend Fire Department, serving as fire chief at the time of his passing. His lifelong commitment to the fire service was marked by a passion for learning and a relentless drive to excel in every aspect of the emergency services. During his career, Chief Norris served in a variety of roles, including paramedic, airport rescue firefighter, wildland firefighter, instructor, safety officer, assistant chief, and fire chief. Yet, his greatest passion lay in education and instruction. He believed deeply in equipping the men and women under his leadership with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel as both career and volunteer first responders. He was devoted not only to his own continual growth but also to empowering others to be the best versions of themselves.
 

 

Throughout his career, Chief Norris faced many of the challenges common to first responders: managing traumatic stress, maintaining physical health and wellness, navigating leadership responsibilities, and balancing the demands of work, volunteer service, and family life. As a founding member of the Texas Line of Duty Death Task Force, he was especially attuned to the profound impact these challenges have on first responders. He approached every aspect of his life, his service, and his instruction of others through the lens of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s 16 Life Safety Initiatives and the Everyone Goes Home program.
 

 

While his loss is deeply felt, this symposium seeks to honor Chief Norris’s enduring legacy of courage and dedication in service, and a passion for learning and education. Through this event, we aim to continue his vision of empowering first responders with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to excel in their roles. It is our hope that his story serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice demonstrated by our first responders every day, and we strive to ensure his commitment to their well-being lives on.