Interview with retired Los Angeles Fire Department Battalion Chief Steve Ruda

Years of Service: 1978-2019

In 1975, Steve attended the Marine Corps Officer Candidate Scholl and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. He left active duty in 1978 at the rank of Captain.

In 1978, Steve joined the Los Angeles Fire Department, where he led a long and storied career spanning 40 years. Steve received the California State Firefighters Association’s Medal of Valor. He also holds three commendations for bravery, including the Medal of Merit, and in 2005 was selected as the Firefighter of the Year.

During this episode, Steve talks about leadership both in the Marines and LAFD and the qualities of what makes a good leader. During his 40 years, Steve was involved in the LA Riots of 1992, the floods of 1993 as well as the fires of 1993.