Chief A. V. Bennett of Birmingham to Resign

Chief A. V. Bennett of Birmingham to Resign

Chief A. V. Bennett, of the Birmingham, Ala., fire department, will resign January 1, to accept a position with the Birmingham Water Company. He declines to state at this time just what the position is which he is to accept. Chief Bennett has had the matter under consideration for six months and has frequently discussed it with the fire commissioners, who have endeavored to persuade him to remain in his present position and still hope that he will change his mind before the first of the year. The whole city apparently is of the same mind as the fire commissioners in the matter.

Chief Bennett says that he accepted the newposition because he believes it will suit him better than that of chief of the fire department, as it will allow him more time at home with his family, and because he has become dissatisfied with fire department life. Chief Bennett arrived in Birmingham front Columbus. Ga., 23 years ago and three days later entered the department and has been a member of it ever since. Being one of the most prominent members of the International Association of Eire Engineers at the New York convention he was urged to allow his name to be used for the presidency. This he declined to do. but probably would have been a candidate if there had been any competition for the position. He has contributed three important papers to the International convention proceedings, namely: “Underwriters Fire Department Inspectors,” in 1909; “Fire Prevention by Education Rather Than by Legislation,” in 1911; “Motor Fire Apparatus; Its Durability, Efficiency and Economy.” in 1913. It was through his efforts that the International association repealed its endorsement of (he underwriters label on hose. The Age-Herald, of Birmingham, says of his proposed retirement: