Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue
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News Release
Helem2.jpeg
Helem2.jpeg
Firefighter paramedic retires after 35 years. (Photo) - 01/27/22

Kelso, WA- Firefighter/Paramedic Greg Helem retired from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue after 35 years of service.  After his service in the U.S. Navy Greg worked for Reynolds Aluminum in Longview and later pursued a career in the fire service once the plant shut down.  Greg had exposure to shipboard fire fighting while he served in the Navy.  His father was also a firefighter in the military and Greg’s uncle was a Captain at the Everett Fire Department all contributing factors for his interest.  


 

Helem earned his EMT in 1988 and later his Paramedic certification in 1995; he started volunteering with Cowlitz 2 (Station 23 Columbia Heights) in 1987 and was hired full time in 1997.  


 

Greg was a pillar in the department’s wildland mobilization participation over the years.  He was one of the first to deploy on a state mobilization as a Cowlitz 2 firefighter to a wildland fire in Leavenworth, WA.  He has deployed every year since serving as an engine boss, only taking the last two years off.  Helem also was a certified shipboard firefighter.  


 

Greg earned several life save awards and six distinguished service awards over his long career including firefighter and EMS responder of the year, voted by his peers.  


 

After retirement Greg plans on traveling with his wife Heather (loves Mexico), finishing up some home remodeling, and spending time with his grandkids and family.  Greg also enjoys woodworking, kayaking, and hiking.  


 

Chief Neves on Helem and his part at Cowlitz 2, “It is hard to capture the impact that a person has had on the community. He has personally saved numerous lives. He has impacted countless others due to his commitment to training the next generation of emergency medical providers and firefighters. He will be greatly missed.”

 

 


 

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