Chicago Fire hasn’t been the same since Chief Wallace Boden departed Firehouse 51 in season 12. Boden left to pursue his new position as Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department (CFD). He initially didn’t want the job but changed his mind because the older generation of firefighters in the CFD was in jeopardy due to Paramedic Chief Robinson’s candidacy. Boden wanted to prevent Robinson from becoming Deputy Commissioner and took the job himself to ensure that every firefighter was treated fairly.
Boden was a caring leader, mentor, and father figure to everyone in Firehouse 51. Firefighters and paramedics approached their leader during challenging situations, and he would advise them with diligence and sincerity. Boden was never intimidated by anyone who outranked him or threatened to take his job if he didn’t comply with their rules. With Dom Pascal as the new Chief of 51 in season 13, firefighters like Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide have felt pressured to adjust to change. Various elements of his character demonstrate how much of a loss his exit was for Chicago Fire.
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Boden’s Tough Demeanor Towards Other High-Ranked Firefighters
Boden Is A Fearless Leader When Confronting Others
Boden makes it clear to Anderson that he never intended to sidestep his leadership role, and he’s the only one who should decide which firefighters stay and go in Firehouse 51. Another pivotal confrontation involved Boden squaring off against Ray Riddle, a District Deputy Chief for the CFD, who intentionally went after 51 because he wanted to become commissioner and fired Boden for his legal troubles. Boden, refusing to back down, warns Riddle that he will fight to get his job back, and eventually does, foiling Riddle’s plan, causing his demotion to airport work.
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Boden’s Ability To Listen To His Crew When They’re In Turmoil
Boden Cares About The Challenges Of His Crew Members
Boden also helped his colleagues prepare for stressful exams to elevate their job status, including paramedic Gabriela Dawson with her firefighter test. He mentored Christopher Herrmann for the lieutenant exam and encouraged him to do the Battalion Chief test later on so he could be his successor. Boden has supported his paramedics, including Sylvie Brett with her paramedicine program to aid the elderly in their homes, and backed Violet Mikami during her blackmail turmoil with Emma Jacobs.
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Boden’s Inspirational Speeches To The Firehouse
Boden Knows How To Inspire His Unit With Words Of Wisdom
The chief gave a passionate speech during Brian “Otis” Zvonecek’s memorial service, signifying the emotion felt by his peers and the pain of losing a fellow firefighter. Another sentimental moment was one of Boden’s last speeches to his crew in season 12 because firefighters like Severide and Kidd know Firehouse 51 won’t be the same without their leader. Boden describes the challenges of change and how individuals come and go in 51, but they will always be considered family.
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Boden’s Protectiveness Towards His Firefighters And Paramedics
Boden Stands Up For Every Member Of Firehouse 51
Boden defended the firehouse against several antagonists who wanted to take over Firehouse 51, including Anderson, Riddle, and Paramedic Chief Robinson during his final season. The chief even attempted to resign from 51 when his crew was threatened by Deputy Director of Finance Gail McLeod in season 2. The fact that none of them were able to get rid of Boden and Firehouse 51 is a testament to their strength and resilience over the years.
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Boden’s Tagline Let’s Go Let’s Go Let’s Go
The Chief’s Catchphrase Sets The Tone For Each Call
The chief’s final rescue at 51 and his “let’s go” chant highlight how much Boden would be missed by his unit because he has been their leader ever since the show’s inception. Boden and his tagline are missing this season because Chief Pascal doesn’t have a catchphrase and has a more stern demeanor compared to his predecessor. Perhaps, if Herrmann becomes the future chief of 51, he can use Boden’s line for inspiration or come up with a tagline of his own.
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Boden’s Relationship With His Stepson
The Chief Is Also A Father Who Loves His Family
The chief’s ability to take time away from his job to be a caring father to Jimmy signifies Boden’s strength as a family man willing to help his child in need of love and support. If Boden were to stick around the show longer, it would’ve been intriguing to see Boden and Jimmy rebuild their father-son relationship even further. However, they can both make special appearances to see how they’re doing after Boden left Firehouse 51.
