Charleston Says Goodbye to a Hero: Fire Chief John Winn Remembered
CHARLESTON, S.C. — The air in Charleston was thick with emotions on Thursday as fire trucks from all over the Lowcountry came together to honor a beloved figure in the community: Battalion Chief John Winn. His funeral took place in West Ashley, drawing a crowd of heartbroken colleagues, friends, and family who wanted to pay their respects to a man who dedicated his life to the service.
Gerald Mishoe, a close friend and co-worker of Chief Winn, was among those sharing their grief. He reflected on the impact Chief Winn had on everyone around him, saying, “We’re all hurting today, and we want to send him off in grand fashion. He was a wonderful man, a great friend, and it’s going to leave a big void in our hearts.”
A Fire Truck Like No Other
Among the sea of fire engines that gathered for the funeral, one truck truly stood out. It was painted in a stunning pearl color and served as a powerful symbol of Chief Winn’s mission during his final days. This unique shade represents the Minnie Pearl Foundation, a nationwide cancer research initiative. Meanwhile, the blue accents on the truck symbolize the struggle against mesothelioma, a type of lung cancer that ultimately took Winn’s life.
Chief Winn’s journey with cancer began when he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, now known to have been in its advanced stages. Mishoe explained, “He was told and knew it was in the advanced stages. Had he received proper scanning early on, they would have found it and possibly treated it much better, giving him a much better chance at a quality of life.”
A Mission to Save Lives
Despite facing his own battle, Chief Winn remained determined to help others. He approached his colleagues with a vital mission: to raise awareness about the importance of early scanning for firefighters. “Because of that, he came to our team and wanted us to start a mission to get this awareness out so our young firefighters could get the necessary scanning and testing to prevent this from getting out of control,” Mishoe stated passionately.
In April, he addressed a group of firefighters when the Old Fort Fire Department donated the pearl truck to assist in his awareness campaign. He articulated his vision clearly, stating, “What I want to do is make this. I want everyone in the state, the nation to realize that mesothelioma cancer is out there, and I want this to be a symbol to recognize every firefighter in South Carolina.”
Continuing His Legacy
Chief Winn’s legacy is not just about his exemplary service as a firefighter; it also lies in the proactive measures he set in motion. The truck is a lasting reminder of his commitment to ensure that no other firefighter in South Carolina has to suffer in silence. His story aims to educate others about the risks of mesothelioma and the crucial importance of regular health checks.
In the wake of his passing, many have stepped up to ensure his mission continues. Crediting his hard work and dedication, memorial donations are being sought for the South Carolina Firefighters’ Association Mesothelioma Fund at P.O. Box 211725, Columbia, SC 29210. This fund seeks to carry on Chief Winn’s legacy of awareness and support for firefighters facing similar health battles.
A Community in Mourning
As Charleston gathers around Chief Winn’s memory, it’s clear that his presence touched the lives of many. From his friends and family to fellow firefighters and the community at large, he will always be remembered as a devoted public servant whose drive to save lives extended beyond his own. With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to a true hero.
