Chief Frederick E. Barnett
September 9, 1964
Cold Bay FAA Fire Department
The airport at Cold Bay in the eastern Aleutians was built during World War II. Airport operations were transferred to civilian authorities and the FAA at the end of the war. Sometime after this transfer, the FAA established a fire department to protect assets at the airport. In 1964 the Cold Bay Fire Chief was an FAA employee named Fred Barnett. During the evening of September 9, 1964 a fire started in the city and airport power plant. Chief Barnett and the department responded. History lists the fire as a “two alarm” fire. At the fire scene, while climbing a ladder at the rear of the building Chief Barnett suffered a heart attack. He was 58 years old at the time of his death. He was survived by his wife Mary Ann Barnett.
During the 2016 September 11th Firefighter Memorial ceremony Chief Barnett was recognized and remembered. Placing his plaque on the wall and reminding us all that he will Never Be Forgotten were:
a. Micheal Livingston, who grew up in Cold Bay and was instrumental in getting Chief Barnett remembered on the Memorial.
b. Della Triggs-Koch --- representing the FAA at the Cold Bay Airport.
c. Rich Koch ---- who is a Manager with the FAA.