William Francis “Bill” Goddard III served as deputy fire chief for Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department and fire chief of Howard County Department of Fire & Rescue.

He was born on August 13, 1951, and passed away on September 1, 2021, at age 70, from his battle with cancer. Bill was raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland, and lived a life marked by unwavering service, leadership, and dedication to his family, community, and country.

At just 16 years old, Bill began his lifelong commitment to public safety by joining the Glenn Dale Volunteer Fire Department, Company 18, as a junior member.

In May 1969, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served as a field medical corpsman, deploying overseas in support of the Vietnam conflict. For over four years, he demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication to his fellow service members before being honorably discharged in September 1972.

Returning to Maryland, Bill continued his firefighting journey with the Glenn Dale Volunteer Fire Department. In December 1972, he embarked on a 23-year career with Prince George’s County Fire
Department (PGFD). His leadership was instrumental in advancing the department’s operations, safety protocols, and specialized response capabilities.

After retiring from PGFD in 1995, Bill’s expertise was sought by Maryland Governor Parris N. Glendening, who appointed him to senior roles in state government. In these roles, he continued
advocating for career and volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel throughout Maryland and the United States.

In 2007, Bill was appointed fire chief of the Howard County Department of Fire & Rescue. Over 6½ years, Bill tirelessly championed the health, safety, and well-being of all department members, both uniformed and civilian. He worked closely with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, contributing to its vital programs and memorial events.

Throughout his career, Bill was known as a “fireman’s firefighter,” a mentor, leader, and advocate who deeply inspired those he worked with. His service extended beyond his professional achievements as a devoted life member of the Glenn Dale Volunteer Fire Department, where his commitment to the fire service never wavered.

Bill was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose warmth, dedication, and integrity touched countless lives. His legacy of service and leadership will endure, and he will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and the firefighting community he cherished.