Schroeder Send Off

On May 8th, 2023 the Louisville Fire Protection District celebrated the retirement of Battalion Chief Diane Schroeder. In attendance were many LFPD firefighters as well as the LFPD Medical Director Colleen Foster, Board President John Milanski, Fire Chief John Willson and her family. Chief Schroeder was given the flag that flew over Fire Station 1, that was presented to her by her shift. She was given a commemorative plaque, an engraved axe by her shift, and Chief Willson gifted her son with her Battalion Chief helmet. Chief Schroeder was the first female to hold a Chief position in the district’s history, and ends a 24 year fire service career that began at Aurora Fire Rescue. After rising through the ranks to Captain at Aurora, after 19 years, Diane left to be a Battalion Chief at Louisville. Chief Schroeder was instrumental in growing the EMS Division and being a guiding light in the organization. During the Marshall Fire, she was instrumental in supporting “Marshall Command” and organizing the deployment of off duty crews, and ensuring those working and needing food and water were given supplies. She was ultimately deployed to “Tango Division ” that night, which affectionately garnered her the nickname “Lady Tango ” by her shift.  

Chief Schroeder led with a purpose and was always there for all personnel to cry with, laugh with, and most importantly, share a meal at the firehouse table with. She always reminded her crew with two quotes “you are the professionals” and you are “thinking firefighters.”  While she is leaving the fire house, you can catch her in many leadership conferences and her podcast, “The Fire Inside Her,” which discusses leadership and authenticity. Congratulations Chief!