I buried my father, Neil Gollogly, last month. He was a former fire chief in our hometown of Millwood, New York. Although I did not follow in his footsteps and join the fire service, the lifetime of lessons I learned from him has helped shape me into a curious, confident woman, the perfect combination for a journalist. These same attributes have also helped me launch my second career as a communications strategist.
Lesson #1: Calm Amid Chaos
We had a fire scanner in our dining room, and every time it blared, signaling K-R-S-2-2-9-Millwood, we knew my father would be heading out the door. Neil Gollogly was a calm man, an essential quality in every aspect of life, from personal relationships to professional interactions. We teach top executives to pause and take a moment to de-escalate situations. Remaining calm is a skill that requires practice.
Lesson #2: A Community Leader
My father was not just a beloved fire chief but also a mentor to countless people in our town. His legacy extends beyond the Millwood Fire Company; Neil Gollogly also impacted other first responders and emergency service organizations in the region. An effective leader leads by example. When Millwood needed a new firehouse, my dad gathered a few key people around a table and launched a grassroots campaign. He exemplified the mantra, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
Lesson #3: Effective Communication
In his 92 years of life, my father taught me that effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful endeavor, especially in the high-pressure world of first responders, where decisions need to be made quickly. As a parent, he was also a Master of Communication strategies. He was always compassionate when I made a mistake and knew how to wield the power of a strong, silent pause when I was in trouble. Sometimes, the most effective communication is that silent, powerful moment where truth lingers in the air.
As we honor my father’s legacy, let’s prioritize communication as a vital skill that shapes not just first responders, but anyone striving to make a difference. By engaging with and nurturing our communities, we ensure that the spirit of optimism and togetherness endures for generations to come.
