In Honor & Loving Memory of Deputy Chief Brian R. Hricik

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“My dad is possibly the best dad out there. He has been there for me since I was born, and some of the things that my sisters and I needed him for, I would have gone crazy. He has been there for us every step of the way, from the first day of school to graduation, he was always there. Every musical, concert, or competition, he would be my biggest cheerleader. 

One thing I love about my dad is his positive outlook on life. My family likes to call him a ‘man child’ because he loves to goof around with us all the time. Even in the worst of times, he can still tell a stupid joke to make us all laugh. He would give anything to see his girls grow up happy. 

I don’t think I can describe how thankful I am for my father. He is a kind soul to everyone he meets, he always puts his family first, and I can count on him for anything. He is always a light whenever he walks into a room, and makes everyone happy. 

I know my father will forever be cheering me on, and watching over me and my family in his heavenly body. I love you now and forever, dad.”

❤️ Anna Hricik

Medical Services Deputy Chief Brian R. Hricik began his career with the Alexandria Fire Department in 1997 after volunteering in Prince William County. Over the past 25 years, Brian proved himself as an outstanding leader and advocate for a high performing EMS system. Prior to becoming the Medical Services Deputy Chief, he served in various capacities including medic, EMS Training Coordinator, and EMS Supervisor.  

After a battle with cancer, Chief Hricik died on Thursday, February 23, 2023, with his family and loved ones by his side. Over the years, he has mentored and inspired many and his impact on the EMS system will continue to be felt and recognized at AFD and throughout the Northern Virginia region. Before his passing, Chief Hricik agreed to tell us more about his career and his passion for EMS and helping others. He also shared some advice for those interested in advancing their careers as first responders. Even during his battle with cancer, he continued to encourage and inspire others.  

The Alexandria Fire Department has not only lost an outstanding employee and Medical Services Deputy Chief, but a dedicated and well-respected colleague and friend.  

Videographer: King Productions 

Brian R. Hricik was born Saturday, August 14th, 1971. He burned with a desire to serve his community by helping others in need. He lived by example and was the consummate leader, first responder, and public safety professional. On Thursday, February 23rd, 2023, surrounded by family and friends, Brian died in his home from complications of occupation-related pancreatic cancer. He was only 51 years old.

Brian was passionate about reducing health care disparities and being proactive instead of reactive. Brian shepherded innovative programs to include, but not limited to: 

• Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) - Community Paramedicine (CP): Connecting vulnerable populations to alternative resources in their home,
• Nurse Triage Call Center: Helping non-emergency patients avoid unnecessary the hospital and tying up critical 9-1-1 resources,
• Education: Proselytizing rapidly evolving Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) education and system-wide preparedness to improve cardiac arrest survival, and
• Community Outreach: Supporting students of the Alexandria City High School, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program, graduate with certifications and job opportunities.

Brian would wryly quip “The fire service was hundreds of years of tradition unencumbered by progress” before suggesting we explore and find new solutions to old problems. Brian bore the weight of change and never complained about what he didn’t have. He encouraged us to look forward, and to strive to be more than others expected. 

While Brian is no longer here in person, he continues to live through others who carry the torch that Brian ignited, one that will never be extinguished. Rest in Peace Brian. We will take it from here. 

Responder Care™