Robert Irvine Foundation
John Greene
Captain, First Responder
Captain John Greene has dedicated more than three decades to the Wilmington Fire Department, serving his community with skill, courage, and unwavering commitment. Over the years, he has responded to every kind of emergency—structure fires, medical calls, rescues—witnessing both the triumphs and tragedies that come with life on the front lines. Now, as a seasoned leader and instructor, John focuses on training the next generation of firefighters, preparing them not only for the technical demands of the job but also for the emotional challenges that inevitably follow.
Firefighting is as much a mental battle as it is a physical one. Years of exposure to trauma, high-stress situations, and split-second decision-making can take a toll on even the most resilient responders. Recognizing the need for change, John has become an advocate for mental health within his department—breaking the stigma around asking for help and encouraging open conversations about emotional well-being.
Wellness Program _
Service Dog Clyde Recipient
A Captain’s Calm: Clyde in the Classroom and Community
In 2023, John welcomed a new kind of teammate: Clyde, a specially trained facility dog. Clyde’s role goes beyond companionship—he works directly with firefighters in the classroom, the firehouse, and the community. His calming presence helps responders decompress after difficult calls, lowers stress levels during training, and boosts morale in a profession where burnout is all too common. In public settings, Clyde serves as an ambassador, strengthening the bond between firefighters and the community they serve.
Together, John and Clyde are leading a cultural shift in emergency services—proving that resilience isn’t just about pushing through, but also about taking care of mental health. By blending tradition with innovation, they are creating a stronger, healthier future for the fire service, one conversation (and one tail wag) at a time.