The Chicago Sun-Times recently published an article highlighting the journey of Jose Santiago, the newly appointed fire commissioner of Chicago. The piece is titled *From High School Dropout to the Top of the Fire Department Ladder*. Here are some excerpts:
Jose Santiago, now 56, grew up as the sole child of a hardworking single mother and a father who was largely absent. At 17, he left Tuley High School to join the Marines, seeking to escape the dangerous streets of Humboldt Park, where many of his peers had fallen victim to gang violence.
Reflecting on those turbulent times, Santiago recalls how he felt trapped in a neighborhood where survival often meant becoming part of the statistics. "A lot of my friends ended up dead or in trouble. I knew I had to leave," he stated during a recent interview.
Santiago's career in firefighting began after he returned to Chicago in 1975. Back then, the firefighter recruitment process focused heavily on physical fitness and agility. With his Marine training and excellent physical condition, Santiago ranked tenth on the hiring list. He started his career in September 1979 and made his first rescue within just two days on the job.
However, his early tenure was marked by challenges. Shortly after joining, firefighters went on strike to protest then-Mayor Jane M. Byrne's stance on staffing requirements for fire engines—a topic still contentious today between Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2. Despite the uncertainty, Santiago chose to remain loyal to his fellow firefighters, staying off the picket line while still aiding in emergencies.
"We didn't hesitate to respond whenever there was an emergency," Santiago explained. "Even if others were crossing the line, we ensured the safety of our community." During these tense weeks, Santiago and his team would personally drive to incidents, using their personal vehicles to reach fires and assist where needed.
Despite being seen by some as someone who might prioritize budget cuts under pressure from Emanuel, Santiago insists that safety remains paramount. "We're transitioning this department into the future," he emphasized. "Technology can play a huge role in improving efficiency without compromising safety."
Santiago's commitment extends beyond mere duty; it reflects a deep sense of responsibility towards both his profession and the city he serves. His story serves as a testament to resilience and dedication, proving that leadership often stems from personal experiences rather than predetermined paths.
To read the full article, click [here](#).
*Note: This article has been expanded for clarity and length.*
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