HOUSTON — Milton C. Alford, the first Black firefighter in the history of the Houston Fire Department, died Tuesday at the age of 97, according to the City of Houston. Alford’s groundbreaking appointment in 1955 marked a pivotal moment in the city’s civil rights and public service history.
Alford was hired on March 4, 1955, during the administration of Mayor Roy Hofheinz, and went on to serve the City of Houston for nearly 27 years. He retired as an inspector after a long career that began alongside nine other Black firefighters under then-Fire Chief Joseph W. Lobue.
“I ask Houstonians to join me in honoring Mr. Alford’s life and legacy,” said Mayor John Whitmire. “He was a trailblazer who broke barriers and paved the way for generations of firefighters. His journey required sacrifice, courage, and commitment. As a public servant, he represented the best of our city.”…