COUNTYWIDE : Firefighter Honored for His Dedication

Fountain Valley Fire Marshal Ronald H. Satterfield likes his job so much that he spends most of his free time trying to improve firefighting services.

For that dedication, the Orange County Firefighters Assn. recently honored Satterfield as its Firefighter of the Year.

Satterfield, 51, helped raise $50,000 for paramedic equipment and training for the Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach fire departments. He coordinates dozens of fund-raisers and special events to bring in some cash for programs that otherwise would not exist.

One such program is Fountain Valley’s fire-prevention education classes given to schoolchildren in the city’s elementary and junior high schools. Firefighters teach students about fire safety and provide prevention tips. They tell students what to do if their homes or clothes catch fire.

“Ron was instrumental in raising funds to get pamphlets and workbooks for the kids to take home,” said Fountain Valley Fire Chief Richard Jorgensen. “We could not have afforded them otherwise. I think he’s fantastic.”

A father of five, Satterfield also raises money for the Orange County Burn Assn., children who have AIDS and numerous charitable organizations.

“If you’re fortunate as I am, you have to help others,” Satterfield said. “I have a happy marriage, and I’ve accomplished what I wanted in my career and life. I appreciate what I have. When you receive something good, you should always give something back. That’s self-gratification.”

In addition to fund raising and firefighting, Satterfield volunteers time to the Big Brother organization, helping to raise self-esteem in fatherless boys, and coaches Little League and city recreation sports teams.

The 25-year veteran of the Fountain Valley Fire Department teaches fire technology courses at Rancho Santiago College in Santa Ana, hoping college students will follow in his footsteps and “strive to make Orange County a better place to live,” he said.