The Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (EDIAFC) represents Fire and Emergency Services Leaders from Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia.
The mission of the Eastern Division is to support the goals and objectives of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) by acting as a liaison between the IAFC and its member states. The Eastern Division does this by consolidating regional issues, providing critical input to the IAFC, and distributing relevant information to the division’s members. This ensures that the perspectives and needs of the region are well-represented at the national level.
In alignment with the IAFC’s mission, the Eastern Division works to provide leadership and support to both career and volunteer fire chiefs, fire officers, and emergency service managers. This is achieved through a commitment to vision, education, information, services, and advocacy, all aimed at enhancing professionalism and operational capabilities across the fire service.
The Eastern Division was founded in 1927 at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City, originally named the “Eastern Association of Fire Chiefs.” The founding officers were Chief C.W. Greenfield of Arlington, New Jersey; Chief John Kenlon of New York City; and Secretary Chief James H. Golden of Newark, New Jersey. The first official convention was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1928, where Chief C.W. Greenfield was elected as the first president, with Chief Ross B. Davis of Philadelphia serving as 1st Vice President.
Over the years, the Eastern Division has grown significantly, with membership surpassing 1,100 by the end of its first year. Throughout its history, the organization has facilitated discussions on critical fire service issues, such as mutual aid and operational noise control. In 1945, due to the impacts of World War II, no convention was held, but the association continued its work in the years that followed.
In 2027, the Eastern Division will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a special conference in Delaware. This milestone event will include a program book listing all the officers who have served over the past century, celebrating a legacy of leadership and dedication to the fire service.
The EDIAFC continues to serve Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, providing vital leadership and support to enhance the effectiveness of fire services across these regions
