Vancouver, WA. — Following a nationwide search, City Manager Lon Pluckhahn has appointed John L. Drake II as Vancouver’s next fire chief, effective Dec. 29.
Drake succeeds Brennan Blue, who retired earlier this year after 38 years of fire service. Drake brings an equally extensive career, with 38 years of leadership and operational experience in fire and emergency services.
Most recently, Drake served as chief deputy of emergency operations for the Los Angeles City Fire Department, where he also held the role of acting fire chief. In those positions, he oversaw one of the nation’s largest fire departments, directing large-scale emergency operations, managing multi-million-dollar budgets, and leading more than 3,400 personnel across organizational services, safety initiatives, and community resilience efforts.
Drake holds a doctorate in policy, planning, and development from the University of Southern California, where he also taught courses in public-sector performance management and emergency services improvement.
“I am excited to have Chief Drake joining Vancouver,” Pluckhahn said. “With his extensive public safety experience, commitment to strengthening emergency operations, and drive to advance community resilience, he will inspire and challenge our fire service. As fire and emergency service needs grow and evolve, Chief Drake’s insight and strategic approach will be invaluable.”
Drake said he is honored to serve the community. “I am truly honored to serve the Vancouver community as your next fire chief,” he said. “I am grateful to our city leaders, public safety personnel, and community members for their support throughout the selection process. I look forward to serving not only as your fire chief, but as a collaborative public safety partner working to ensure a safe and prepared community.”
As fire chief, Drake will lead a department focused on meeting the evolving needs of Vancouver’s growing population. City officials said he is expected to draw on his background in strategic planning and performance management to further strengthen service delivery, operational readiness, and emergency response across the city.
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