On September 21, 1981, at 24 years of age, Duster made history by becoming the first black fireman in the city of Florence, ...

Shelly Carter, Hamden Fire Department’s assistant fire chief, made history and continues to pave the way for young women to pursue careers in public safety. But she admits it was a career that she had ...

The story of Joe Louis Duster is a story of perseverance. A black man who decided that no matter what he was up against, he was determined to integrate the Florence Fire Department.

The lieutenant is now a key member of AFR's recruitment program, where he strives to increase diversity within the fire service. He does that through career fairs, school visits and hands-on training.