First Responder Hero Award: Battalion Chief Eric Bowen

EAST RIDGE, Tenn. (WDEF) — News 12 is recognizing some of the bravest members of our community through the First Responders Hero Award.

Whether they serve as EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, or police officers, the award honors the unwavering dedication these first responders show every day to keep the community safe. When danger strikes, they are the first to answer the call. Now, it is our turn to put them first.

In partnership with Wettermark Keith, News 12 is proud to spotlight these courageous individuals.

This month, the community nominated Battalion Chief Eric Bowen with the East Ridge Fire Department at Station 1.

“Well thank you Lillian, and thank you Channel 12,” Bowen stated.

Bowen reflected on how his firefighting journey first began more than three decades ago.

“I had a friend who was a firefighter, and I was talking to him about it back in, like, ’93, something like that. I’ve been up in here for a while,” Bowen explained. “He said the city was taking over the fire department and recommended it. I had interest in it. I joined in spring of ’94, became a volunteer fireman, and they paid in ’96. Been here 30 years, 32 years service total.”

Bowen said serving alongside his fellow firefighters has been one of the greatest honors of his life.

“And it has absolutely been an honor and privilege to work with these guys,” Bowen added. “I look forward to retirement. I know the city’s safe in their hands. There’s a piece of me left here with my son working here, and there’s actually a piece of me in all these guys.”

His son, Wilson Bowen, spoke about the impact his father has had both at home and inside the department.

“Well, I’m very blessed, and I’ve had a good opportunity to work with him within this past year,” Wilson Bowen shared. “I’ve learned a lot from him. All the guys here have. Not only being a father figure to me at home, but to a lot of the younger guys here. A lot of people look up to you and appreciate you for everything you do.”

Lieutenant Tyler Ezell praised Bowen’s leadership and mentorship.

“I’ve been fortunate to be on his shift for almost five years in and out of my stay here at East Ridge,” Ezell explained. “The biggest thing I’ve taken away from him is his leadership and his mentorship with the younger guys coming up in the department.”

Firefighter Michael Alexander said the recognition is well deserved.

“We were all chuckling about this because we know he doesn’t want the spotlight, but it’s well deserved. For a career like he has had, he definitely needs it.”

Engineer Brandon Dycus echoed those sentiments.

“He is a great leader, great mentor, the upcoming guys have learned a lot from him as well, and I think he’s gonna be great in his retirement.”

Firefighter Alex Chaigne said Bowen constantly encourages firefighters to think independently and continue learning.

“Something I struggled with when I went into this career was thinking outside the box, and he really promotes training and really thinking for yourself,” Chaigne explained. “For that, I want to say thank you.”

Wilson Bowen closed with an emotional message to his father.

“Sad to see you go, but it’s much deserved. I love you, dad.”

As Battalion Chief Eric Bowen prepares for retirement after more than three decades of service, he said he leaves knowing the next generation is ready to carry on the department’s mission.

“I’m very proud of these young men,” Bowen said. “The city’s blessed right now. They got a bunch of good firefighters. It’s been an absolute honor to work with them.”

News 12 is honored to recognize Captain Thomas Finch for his years of service and commitment to protecting the community.