Homer Lee Lewis Sr. , June 28, 2010

In his interview with Alicia Martin-Cowger on June 28, 2010, Homer Lewis, who served with the Boise Fire Department, offered his memories of his career as a firefighter. Lewis’ career with BFD followed two years of service during World War II in France and Germany, where he saw action during the invasion of Normandy, the liberation of France, and the invasion and occupation of Germany. He received several injuries and was awarded three Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts for acts of bravery. Following the war, Lewis relocated to Melba, Idaho and worked as a plaster tender until he was hired by BFD in 1952 and retired in 1977. He spoke on the following topics: his memories of World War II; recruitment and training of new firefighters; life in the firehouse; his injuries on the line; his role in convincing the city of Boise to upgrade fire hydrants to Waterous units with breakaway valves in standard sizes; his reasons for entering the fire service; medical calls and major fires; learning how to combat fire; his abilities as a tillerman; firehouse pranks and rivalries; his involvement in the union; his family life; changes in equipment and safety; and his work as a Captain in the Maintenance Shop.