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Meet Your Neighbor: Dean Fletcher
By Callie Thomas
“Not the glittering weapon fights the fight, but rather the hero’s heart”. –Proverb
There’s a very good reason that firefighters have long been considered heroes…they possess equal parts courage and heart. Resident Dean Fletcher has been a firefighter for the City of Las Vegas for more than 31 years, and has not only served the city well but continues to show heart through his volunteer efforts. Whether it is the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) or his work as a board member for the Professional Fire Fighters of Nevada Benevolent Fund, it is easy to say that Fletcher is driven to influence positive change and make a difference throughout the community.
The 33-year resident has established deep roots in the city he calls home. He and his wife Cindy have been married for 32 years and both of their children, Ashlee and Ryan, were born in Las Vegas. Fletcher and his wife are equally elated to have welcomed their first granddaughter, Flynn, in December. Children are and have been an important part of his life, and so it is natural that he has aligned himself with organizations that assist them including the Coats for Kids Program, the Public Education Foundation and the “Fill the Boot” MDA Drive. Although he considers himself a “simple” person, Fletcher has made a difference in the community. He shares some of his experiences through the charities he’s chosen, as well as a passion for all things sports.
How is it you first became a firefighter?
“I was a firefighter in the U.S. Air Force prior to becoming a firefighter with the City of Las Vegas.”
Any experiences in the early days of your career you’d like to share?
“Well, as a rookie firefighter I responded to both the MGM and Las Vegas Hilton fires the first six months of my career within the Las Vegas Fire Department.”
Tell us a bit about your volunteer efforts. How did you get started?
“Over the past 31 years as a firefighter for the city, I was able to become involved in the Professional Fire Fighters of Las Vegas local union early on in my career, which eventually allowed me to serve as the Southern District Vice President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Nevada. The Fund allows us to assist many charitable organizations such as the Coats for Kids Program, which will provide new coats for children in need throughout Northern and Southern Nevada. Volunteering for the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter was also part of a natural progression as they assist citizens on a daily basis because of fires in their residence. The Red Cross does an exceptional job of helping families who have been affected by home fires, which is a big part of why I continue to volunteer for them.”
Any personal experiences you’d like to share about these charities?
“While working with the MDA, you become very attached to the children that are affected with Muscular Dystrophy. This charitable cause in particular has become a very rewarding (yet sometimes difficult) experience as the Professional Fire Fighters of Nevada continue to assist children affected throughout the years.”
So… we hear you’re a really big sports fan…
“Yes, I enjoy watching college sports and I’m a big football fan… love playing Fantasy Football as well as traveling to watch college and professional football games. I’m also a pretty big Dallas Cowboys fan.”
So…if you weren’t a firefighter, what would be your dream job?
“Coach of the Dallas Cowboys.”
