5TH DISTRICT REPORT | CHARLIE MARTINEZ

New Leadership… Now what?

The CPF’s 5th District has seen significant change in its local leadership. For me, this meant being proactive, hitting the road to meet them, and answering their questions. This presented a challenge to get them the training they desperately needed to perform as local leaders. The solution was Federal Training provided by IAFF 16th DVP Jimmy Johnson and the Federal Firefighter Joint Council. Thirteen Presidents, Vice Presidents, and Secretary-Treasurers from the CPF’s 5th traveled to San Antonio to receive valuable training specific to federal locals. The event was a huge success and gave attendees a foundation to build upon as they grow as labor leaders.

Long-Time President “Hangs Them Up”

For two decades, Doug Affolter has served the executive board of Local F-102 from Lemoore Naval Station, half of that as president. During his time, he was a solid leader to his members, often fighting battles against management and a navy that was very much “less than friendly”. Last year, Doug stepped down to prepare for his retirement and allow for a new generation of leaders to shine. He has made himself available, ensuring a favorable transition into F-102's future. I want to personally thank Doug for his many years serving Local F-102 and wish him well on his retirement.

Honoring One of Our Own

The COVID-19 Pandemic claimed many lives. One of them was Firefighter/Paramedic Matthew “Bear” Rominger. Matt was working for Mountain Warfare Training Grounds when he fell ill with job-related COVID-19 and died a month later in 2021. This past September, I traveled to the IAFF Firefighter Memorial where Matt’s name was inscribed on the memorial wall. An honor detail from Local F-85 and members from Mountain Warfare and Camp Pendleton carried the guide-on and presented a flag to Lynne. It was an experience I won’t ever forget.