OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City lost a very good friend and a well-known representative of the Oklahoma City Fire Department.
Former assistant fire chief Jon Hansen passed away after a battle with cancer.
For many people, Hansen was the face of calm and reassurance during the days surrounding the Oklahoma City bombing.
Hansen addressed the media and the public regarding the firefighters’ heroic effort in the face of evil.
Hansen and hundreds of Oklahoma City firefighters were battling the clock while looking for survivors of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.
As the act of terrorism gained national attention, Hansen’s face became synonymous with the heroes and the unwavering spirit of resilience of Oklahomans.
Eventually, Hansen retired from the fire department after 27 years of service.
He then moved into the private sector, so he could remain close to the Oklahoma City Fire Department.
“And, I get to stay with the fire service, and I think that was it, getting to stay with the men and women I’ve worked with and love so dearly,” Hansen said at the time.
On Friday, the Oklahoma City Fire Department and the Edmond Fire Department announced Hansen’s passing.
It is with heavy hearts we say goodbye to one of the best. R.I.P. Brother Jon Hansen pic.twitter.com/wMcq8ZcdvD
— Oklahoma City Fire (@OKCFD) April 15, 2016
Oklahoma City fire officials said Hansen passed away Friday morning in his home with his family by his side.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Jon Hansen. Jon was an instrumental figure in Oklahoma City’s recovery from the horrible aftermath of the Murrah building bombing almost 21 years ago. His calm voice reassured everyone who was watching that process with an implied promise that we could overcome the terror of that tragic morning. He personified the Oklahoma Standard before we had even put a name to it. He will be missed,” read a statement from Gov. Mary Fallin.
