Submitted by Captain Jody Ruest, Saskatoon Airport ARFF
Honoring Chief Bryan House – Celebrating Over 40 Years of Dedicated Service
Chief Bryan House began his career with Transport Canada in 1980, joining the Saskatoon Airport in Airfield Maintenance. Just one year later, in 1981, he transferred to the Airport Fire Department as a Firefighter—marking the beginning of a remarkable four-decade journey in airport fire services. Through hard work, leadership, and dedication, he rose to the rank of Captain / Fire Officer.
In August 1996, when the Saskatoon Airport contracted the fire service to the Saskatoon Fire Department, Captain House became the Crash Rescue Coordinator (Fire Chief), a role he filled with distinction until July 2004. At that time, Pro-Tec Fire Services of Canada took over airport fire operations, and Chief House continued to lead the department until his retirement in December 2021.
Over the course of his career, Chief House responded to numerous aircraft incidents as well as major structural fires at the Saskatoon Airport terminal and a significant hangar fire. His calm leadership, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to safety were instrumental in guiding crews through these critical events.
Chief House’s service is recognized with several prestigious honors, including the Government of Canada Exemplary Fire Service Medal (March 2001) and the Saskatchewan Protective Services Medal (October 2009). These awards reflect the exceptional contributions he made throughout his career.
Beyond emergency response, one of Chief House’s most profound legacies is the impact he made as a trainer and mentor. Over forty years, he shaped the careers of countless airport firefighters—providing instruction in live-fire operations, mock-up exercises, and advanced ARFF techniques. He also taught at multiple Transport Canada Regional Fire Schools in Saskatoon and played a key role in establishing and training airport fire services in Grande Prairie, AB; Wabash, Labrador; and most recently, Calgary International Airport.
Chief House’s knowledge, mentorship, and leadership have left a lasting mark not only on those he trained, but on the safety culture and operational excellence of airport fire services across Canada. His influence lives on in the many firefighters he guided and the safe environments he helped create.
A heartfelt thank you to Chief Bryan House for his extraordinary career, unwavering dedication, and immeasurable contributions to the Airport Fire Service in Canada. Your leadership will be remembered, and you will be deeply missed.
HAPPY RETIREMENT
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