Family & Friends Gather to Say Goodbye to Firefighter ‘Pepper’

DUMFRIES, Va. — Capt. Stanley “Pepper” Johnson on Saturday came to the place where he spent the past 18 years volunteering to serve his community.

It was there, at the Dumfries Volunteer Fire Department, about 100 fellow volunteers, their families and friends, gathered in the apparatus bay — where firetrucks that morning had been moved aside to make room for the crowd — to greet Pepper, most for one final time.

The firefighter is terminally ill, according to department officials. This gathering was a way for Pepper to be with his friends while he still had the strength to do so.

More in a story posted to the fire department’s website written by Sgt. Chris Griffin:

For some, it seemed only appropriate that everyone should meet in the bay because it’s the first place a firefighter meets for duty and it’s usually the last place you say farewell until the next time. As past and present firefighters had done over the decades, several returned to this station one more time.

Around 10 o’clock, the Assistant Chief’s vehicle was seen pulling onto the ramp and silence carried throughout the station. Arriving from the rear the lights were activated as the vehicle pulled in. Within moments applause and cheers erupted as the family exited the vehicle.

Uniformed members of the department helped Pepper’s family from the vehicle, and then Pepper himself got out. As he did, he bent over to hug one of the Marines he served with. It was a tearful reunion that brought weeps among the crowd, Griffin reports.

As Pepper spoke, he announced what many had already learned; that he was terminally ill. He shared how he urgently wanted to see everyone again while he still had the strength to do so. As he spoke he began to look at all of those in attendance. Picking various faces out of the crowd, he began to smile and share a few laughs as he reflected with those undoubtedly considered as his other family.

After his 20 years in the Marine Corps, Johnson became well known for his training, ability, and experience with both fire and EMS in the Dumfries department. Others that know Pepper Johnson came to the firehouse from other stations in Woodbridge, Dale City, Coles District, as well as members of Prince William County’s career force of fire and rescue crews.

Strong in spirit and determination, Pepper assured everyone he wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon and that this wasn’t a goodbye; it was just a farewell until he saw them again. Chief Miles Young then stepped forward and presented him his old fire helmet stating that he was expected to return for duty once he felt up to it. As smiles and laughter broke out, Pepper thanked everyone for the well wishes, thoughts and prayers. He further expressed his love and gratitude for his wife and family that stood beside him during this difficult time.

Moments later, he closed as those in attendance went forward for a handshake, hugs and words of love and support. The visit then ended with crowds of firefighters and friends forming two lines as his escort team slowly drove down the ramp. Salutes were rendered by many while others held hands over their hearts. Once the vehicle was out of view, a great sadness was felt as many could be seen hugging one another and sobbing.

This man is truly an inspiration and a friend to so many we call Heroes. As his teachings and legacy goes forward…

Farewell “Pepper” until we meet again.