OWL Membership is a Family Affair for the Williams family

It’s not uncommon for generations of families to serve alongside each other in the fire and rescue service. Over Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton (OWL) Volunteer Fire Department’s long history, many generations of families have served in our ranks. The Williams Family is among these dedicated families. Three generations have been actively serving since 2023.

Dave Williams 1973 brush fire in Montgomery County

Dave Williams, Life Member

When Dave Williams joined OWL in 2001, he brought with him years of volunteer firefighter experience. His service started at the Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department in Montgomery County, Maryland, in 1972 as a cadet (their version of a Junior program). He completed a two-year Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) Fire Science program, which was hosted by the University of Maryland. He earned a Basic Firefighting, Advanced First Aid, and EMT-A certifications through the program. After graduation, he pursued a career in law enforcement, which led to him joining the U.S. Air Force. When his service overseas was complete, he resumed his membership with Silver Spring VFD, where he eventually earned life member status.

Dave has served in various leadership roles at OWL, including Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, and Assistant Fire Chief. He is currently serving in his sixth year as the Department’s President. In 2021, he was bestowed with a Life Membership.

Ryan Williams

Ryan Williams

When his son, Ryan, showed interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter, Dave suggested joining OWL versus joining a volunteer fire department in Fairfax County, where they lived at the time. Dave explained, “While at my work location on Featherstone Road in Woodbridge, I saw an OWL fire engine. I suggested to Ryan that he look into membership with OWL, as it seemed to be a volunteer-friendly department.  After he joined, he talked me into joining OWL, too.”

Ryan joined OWL’s Junior Program in 2001 at age 15 1/2. He has followed in his father’s footsteps by also serving in leadership roles. After earning firefighter and EMT certifications, he climbed the officer ranks, first as a Fire Sergeant, then Fire Lieutenant and Fire Captain, and, for the past 4 years, he has been an Assistant Fire Chief. In 2023, he was also bestowed with Life Member status.

Ryan shared, “Although we were never assigned to the same crew, my dad and I could staff together a few times. It was enjoyable, and it gave us a common passion. We’ve had many long conversations, and because of his experience, he understands the challenges I’ve faced as I grew through the ranks.”

Dave Williams (second from left), Ryan Williams (far right)

Dave and Justin Williams

Dave’s other son, Justin, Ryan’s younger brother, also served briefly with OWL. Justin joined as a Junior member in 2006. He resigned in 2013 after being hired by the City of Manassas Fire Department. He’s now employed by Fairfax County Fire and Rescue.

In June 2023, the next generation of Williams’ became an OWL member. Ryan’s son, Austin, has joined the Junior program. Ryan explained that Austin has grown up around the fire station. In fact, when he left the hospital at just four days old, his first stop was at the fire station.

Austin Williams

Austin Williams

Ryan explained, “I am excited that Austin will be given the opportunity to demonstrate that he is ready to take on the adult responsibilities required to respond to emergencies. The maturity and skills I gained through that experience proved invaluable to me, and I am sure they will serve him well as he moves on into adulthood.”

One of Austin’s fondest memories was observing his father on a fire call and witnessing the immediate and effective collaboration as units arrived on the scene. Austin’s mother, Sandra, is also an OWL member. She currently serves as the Department’s Rescue Chief. “As a member, my goals are to become a skilled firefighter and EMT. I want to make a difference in the community like my parents and grandpa have,” Austin explained.

Austin Williams (R) with his younger brother, Hunter

Dave shared, “I am very proud of Austin. I am sad that there have been many changes and the fire department of “yesterday” is no longer available for him. But, I am happy that OWL is still able to provide him with the opportunity to serve in Prince William County.”

OWL is fortunate to have the Williams’ family as members. Their combined years of service and experience is a great asset to the department.