Nantucket Fire Department Captain Jeff Allen Retires After 26 Years

Nantucket Fire Department captain Jeff Allen retired last Friday after 26 years of service to the town. Allen told the Current last week that he was getting close to considering retirement, but when he recently lost his housing, it made the decision a little easier. 

A steady presence in the firehouse and around the island for nearly three decades, Allen was instrumental in establishing the numbered signs at beaches across the island to help beachgoers and first responders in the event of an emergency. He was there for just about every significant fire or emergency situation, along with countless rescue calls over the years. Allen also served as the union president for the Nantucket Fire Fighters Local 2509. 

"I can't believe how quickly the time passed," Allen said. "I don't regret a single moment." 

Allen met his wife Jacquie years ago while on a rescue call on the island. They’ve been together ever since. They'll be living in Dorchester, and Allen said he's keeping his options open as he weighs his next chapter in life.