OWL Celebrates Women’s History Month: Meet Some Notable Women in OWL’s History

In the 1970s, Marianne DeConti lived in Lake Ridge. She was a married mother of three teenage boys but had always wanted to become a firefighter. She made history when she joined OWL to do just that.

Former OWL Department Chief Tommy Furr was at the scene of her first fire. According to a newspaper article in OWL’s historical archives, DeConti was a “novice” on that call for a vacant house fire. The article explained that she had already gained respect from fellow members. While pointing to DeConti, Chief Furr is excitedly quoted as saying, “See that fireman in the red hat up there? That’s a lady! Our first!” 

DeConti made history again in 1974 when she was the first female delegate to the Virginia State Firefighter’s Annual Convention.

At 15 years old, Wendy Jamieson joined OWL as a Junior Member. She eventually became OWL’s First Woman Fire Captain and helped with the Junior Program. Her experience at OWL led to a paid firefighter job.

Jamieson resigned from OWL in 1997 but was nominated and approved for Honorary Membership status. She says, “I had the best time of my life. It was OWL that gave me my biggest family. OWL really cares about their members. They have been instrumental for so many members are getting their favorite job in the world.”