Our latest Meet Your Officers feature introduces Lieutenant Rocky Morrow, a dedicated firefighter with the Okmulgee Fire Department. With nearly 22 years of service under his belt, Lieutenant Morrow’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and finding purpose in life, even when starting later than most.
Morrow didn’t follow the usual path to a firefighting career. His dream of becoming a firefighter began in his youth, but financial constraints delayed his pursuit. It wasn’t until he was 43 that he decided to make the leap, making him the department’s oldest recruit at the time. “I always wanted to do it, and finally, there came a point in my life that I could,” Morrow shared. “I haven’t looked back one time.” Now nearing his 65th birthday, Morrow’s passion for the job hasn’t waned.
— Embracing a New Career Later in Life
Before finding his calling as a firefighter, Morrow worked a variety of jobs and even owned a small business. But something always drew him back to his original dream. “None of us are going to be rich doing this, and I’ve accepted that,” he said, reflecting on his decision to pursue firefighting later in life. “But I love it. Here I am, almost 65, and I still like it.”
Starting a physically demanding career in his 40s came with its challenges, but Morrow met them head-on. The excitement and unpredictability of firefighting kept him motivated. “You can go from a dead sleep to inside a burning house within minutes. It’s not for the faint-hearted,” he said, describing the adrenaline and urgency that come with each emergency call.
— Finding Family at the Firehouse
For Morrow, the fire station has become more than just a workplace – it’s a home away from home. The bond shared among the firefighters is strong, built over years of working closely together. “We’re like a family down here,” Morrow explained. “When you spend a third of your life here, you really get to know and care about the people you work with.”
Life at the station varies from day to day. Some shifts may be filled with training, equipment checks, and routine tasks, while others bring non-stop calls and urgent responses. But regardless of the pace, Morrow appreciates the unpredictability of the work. “One thing about this job – I’m telling you, it’s not boring,” he said with a grin.
— Life Outside the Station
When he’s off duty, Morrow’s focus shifts to his family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he spends his time attending his grandchildren’s events, camping, and enjoying lake outings. “Once you get to my age, it’s all about the grandkids,” he said warmly. With eight grandchildren, family life keeps him busy, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
A hands-on, creative person, Morrow also enjoys refurbishing antiques and repurposing old items. “I like to see the potential in things and bring them back to life,” he shared, describing his hobby of finding unique treasures at flea markets and transforming them into something special.
— A Guiding Philosophy: Treat Others Well Morrow’s approach to both life and firefighting is grounded in a simple philosophy: “Treat people the way you want to be treated.” He believes in making a positive impact, no matter how small, especially in a town where many people face difficult circumstances. “We’re here to make things a little better, especially for those who are struggling,” he said, emphasizing the importance of service.
— Still Going Strong
After more than two decades in the fire service, Morrow’s commitment to the job remains steadfast. While firefighting is often considered a “young man’s game,” Morrow isn’t ready to hang up his helmet just yet. “I’ve been here long enough to retire, but if you enjoy what you’re doing, why stop?” he said. His dedication to the department and the community he serves is evident in his ongoing passion for the work.
Lieutenant Rocky Morrow’s story is one of resilience, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and find fulfillment. Whether responding to an emergency or enjoying time with his family, he approaches life with heart and determination. For those seeking inspiration, Morrow’s journey shows that the right time to start something meaningful is whenever you decide to take the first step.
