H. Fred Broussard began his career with the Maurice Volunteer Fire Department in 1967 when he and several men from the community decided there was a need for a fire department in Maurice. The village needed fire protection and could not continue to rely on departments which were more than 10 miles away. The community was dedicated to raising money by going door to door asking for donations for the cause. In 1968 the Maurice Volunteer Fire Department was chartered and incorporated. Its officers were elected and Fred was elected as its first fire chief. That same year the dream of the community became a reality when a Ford pumper was delivered. The first firehouse was a building leased from the Village of Maurice for $20.00 for 20 years. From 1967 to 1999 Fred served as Chief except for approximately 6 months. The first truck with equipment was valued at $28,000.00. Thirty-two years later, with the leadership of Chief Fred, the Maurice Volunteer Fire Department had 2 pumpers, 1 mini pumper, 1 service van and a 5-bay station all valued at over $600,000.00.

Chief Fred’s commitment to the department was admired by many other departments throughout the state. He promoted training, dedication and leadership throughout his tenure. Fred raised 4 children with his wife Lou while running his plumbing and electrical business.

Chief Fred was instrumental in putting together the Vermilion Fire Protection Association serving as President from1987-88. He was a lifetime member of the Louisiana State Firemen Association. Fred was also a member of the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association serving as Secretary 1984-1992 and as President 1992-1993. He also found time to serve on several committees such as Chairman of the Constitution and By Laws Committee. On the national level, he was a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs as well as the NFPA. Fred was such an influence on his community and family that his son and 4 of his 6 grandsons have also been volunteer firefighters.

As you can see Chief Fred lived for the fire department and always found time to be a father and family man. He gave his time to the fire department like no one else could. He gave so much that he gave his all. On November 18, 1999, Chief Fred died of a heart attack in the line of duty on Call #83 of that year. He died on the catwalk of Engine 603 named “Big Fred” while operating the pump at a major Haz-mat fire at a local gas station. The truck “Big Fred” had been dedicated to Chief Fred several years before when the department purchased a new pumper.

The death of Chief Fred was a loss not only to his department and the community but the entire state. He will be remembered by many as “Fearless Fred” or Chief “Big Fred”. Many will come and go but none will ever fill his footsteps. His commitment to the fire service will be a legacy to his memory.