When Fire Chief Manny Casarez pinned the firefighter’s badge on his son, it wasn’t just a career milestone – it was the culmination of two decades of service, sacrifice, and purpose. Now leading the Boerne Fire Department, Casarez brings that same spirit of dedication to the Kendall County community every day.
Originally drawn to firefighting while taking classes at San Antonio College, Casarez found his life’s calling in service to others.
“Coming to Boerne in 2023 felt like a calling,” he reflects. “The people of Kendall County and the Team Boerne family have been incredibly supportive, and that inspires me daily to give my best.”
Under his leadership, the department has embraced professional development, launching initiatives like a peer support team focused on firefighters’ mental health – a growing need in the first responder world. It’s here that Hope for Heroes Texas has become a vital partner.
“Mental health is a real challenge in our profession,” Casarez says. “Having a local partner like Hope for Heroes Texas makes a significant difference. Knowing we have them to lean on gives us great peace of mind.”
Casarez is quick to deflect attention from himself, preferring to spotlight the team around him.
“I don’t consider myself a hero. I see myself as one part of something much bigger,” he says.
Yet, his vision for the department’s future – one rooted in compassion, resilience, and excellence – speaks volumes about the kind of leader he is.
For young people dreaming of serving their community, Casarez offers this advice:
“Find a passion and pursue it with purpose. Learn everything you can, volunteer, and most importantly, always keep people at the heart of your mission.”
As Kendall County continues to grow, Chief Casarez and the Boerne Fire Department stand ready – not just as first responders, but as neighbors, mentors, and friends. And with the support of organizations like Hope for Heroes Texas, they’re ensuring no firefighter faces their challenges alone.
As Brad Cornell of Hope for Heroes Texas reminds us:
“Our mission is to serve those who go first. We are honored to stand beside the first responder heroes who step into danger so the rest of us can live in safety. Their sacrifice touches families and communities across the nation – and it’s our privilege to make sure leaders like Chief Casarez, and the teams they guide, never stand alone.”
