(WEAA)—Baltimore City’s first Black fire chief, Herman Williams, Jr., has died.
The fire department and Williams’ son, television host Montel Williams, tweeted about his death over the weekend.
“It’s a somber day for #BCFD as we mourn the loss of Chief Herman Williams Jr. - the first African American Fire Chief for Baltimore City. As a champion, pioneer & agent of change, Chief Williams will be truly missed. He loved #BCFD & #BCFD loved him,” the fire department stated.
Williams was appointed as chief of the fire department in 1992.
Baltimore Fire Chief Niles Ford and Baltimore City Assistant Fire Chief Roman Clark join Two Way Talk to honor the life of former Chief Herman Williams, Jr.
Click the audio to listen.
Many public officials and organizations also paid tribute to the former chief and extended their condolences to his loved ones.
My dad was a man whose shoes were truly too big and to fill. Thanks for this tribute, @BaltimoreFire. 🙏🏿 https://t.co/qgQcWKd5TH
— Montel Williams (@Montel_Williams) January 10, 2022
Chief Herman Williams Jr. embodied the true spirit of public service. The difference he made blazing the trail for Black firefighters to serve in @baltimorefire and his unwavering commitment to our residents and the City of Baltimore will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/sT7jmPEx24
— Brandon M. Scott (@MayorBMScott) January 9, 2022
Herman Williams, Jr. was the embodiment of public service in Baltimore City. He served in various capacities under 9 mayors for 47 years and he was the first African American chief for @BaltimoreFire. He loved our City & worked hard to make it better.
— Kweisi Mfume (@RepKweisiMfume) January 10, 2022
Rest In Peace. #BCFD pic.twitter.com/zE47vB8m41
A true hero in every sense of the word, Chief Herman Williams, Jr.’s legacy will live on through his selfless commitment to the Baltimore community. We join @BaltimoreFire in mourning this great loss, and share our sympathies with Chief Williams’ family. https://t.co/frmf3zBHvH
— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) January 10, 2022
