LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - Long before Dean Lappe ever wore the chief’s badge, he says he was already no stranger to service.

A U.S. Army veteran stationed at Fort Polk in the 1980s, Lappe transitioned from military life to the fire service — a calling that has now spanned more than three decades.

He joined the Houston River Fire Department nearly 25 years ago, and today, he’s still suiting up — not for the recognition, but for the responsibility.

“My view on it is let’s get the guys out there. Let’s put them in gear. Let’s do the two-minute drills. Let’s go to the training center. Let’s get the fire burning in the burn building,” Lappe said. “Let’s do realistic training… drag the hose off the engine… use the water off the engine. Get the pump operators up on what they need to do.”

Lap

See Full Page