Alarm in the Firehouse: A Memoir of America's First Openly Gay Professional Firefighter

by R Kevin Mallinson

In the early 1980s, Kevin joined the Key West Fire Department. His dream of being a professional firefighter had come true. He hadn't imagined how being gay would threaten his fellow firefighters. Kevin became the target of fierce and unrelenting homophobic assaults intended to force him out of the department. His story highlights the importance of personal values and a sense of humor when facing adversity. Against a backdrop of the emerging AIDS epidemic, Kevin relays a narrative of conflict, resilience, and triumph over his several years as America's first openly gay professional firefighter. This honest account invites the reader to contemplate the nature of masculinity and consider what it means to be one of America's Bravest .

232 pages, Paperback

Published November 29, 2021

Reviews

[Leo M]

The intelligence, insight and courage he shares in his memoir is not only limited to the LGBTQ+ population, but rather the struggle of every person striving to pursue a dream in the midst of constant setbacks and subtle and not so subtle confrontation. He has a unique sense of timing along with a gifted sense of humor. He shares profound questions about thinking how to pursue conflict with the antagonist “other.” Exceptionally well done vignettes that may seem isolated, but when taken together align to tell the story.

[Jen]

Wow, this book blew me away! It's such an eye-opener to the challenges faced by the first openly gay firefighter. His resilience and courage in the face of societal norms redefine what true bravery means. It's a powerful reminder of how far we've come in LGBTQ+ rights, but also a sobering look at the discrimination many still face. It left me pondering just how many LGBTQ+ individuals have endured harassment and discrimination throughout their lives. A must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history and the fight for equality.

[Selina Rossman]

Amazing

I don't frequently read nonfiction but I am so grateful that I picked up this book! It was an amazing tale of dedication and perseverance in the face of endless obstacles and gave me new respect for the bravery it takes to be the first.

[Denise]

I hope things have improved, although I am pretty sure misogynism has not been eradicated in the Fire Department.

Thank you, Mr. Mallinson, for bringing to the open what you endured.