As we celebrate the legacy of the Federal Court Consent Decree, we must recognize two key individuals whose courage and dedication made it possible: Greg Perry and Dennis Moore. Their work was instrumental in paving the way for racial equity within the Des Moines Fire Department (DMFD) and setting a foundation of accountability and inclusion for generations to come. Greg and Dennis first brought their charges of discrimination in the 1980 DMFD firefighter selection process to

We honor Walt Williams, Sr., a man whose perseverance and dedication paved the way for inclusion within the Des Moines Fire Department. Born in 1940 to Bamie and Felix A. Williams, Sr., Walt grew up in Des Moines, where he graduated from East High School. Following his graduation, Walt served his country as a radar operator in the U.S. military. His service reflected the commitment that would later define him. In the mid-1960s, Walt Williams and Milford Fonza courageously app

We honor Milford Fonza, a trailblazer whose dedication to public service and perseverance in the face of adversity left an indelible mark on our community and beyond. Born in 1943 to Hallie and Blossom Fonza, Milford grew up in a close-knit, talented family. A graduate of East High School in 1962, he served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, from May 1962 to May 1965, as a skilled Radar Operator. But his ultimate dream—sparked at the young age of 12 after wi