On May 16, Stafford Volunteer Fire Department, Station 2, and Fire & Iron Motorcycle Club (MC), Station 161, will join forces to host the First Annual “John “Mac” McDonald Poker Run, a motorcycle event to raise money for the newly established “John McDonald Scholarship Fund.”
The Poker Run will bring together motorcycle clubs and enthusiast alike in Mac’s memory so that riders can share stories about Mac and his life-long contribution to Public and Fire Safety, which spans decades.
In the process, motorcycle riders will follow a pre-described route with five stops along the way. At the end of the run the rider with the best poker hand wins.
In the process folks get to ride their motorcycles, make new friends and remember a dear friend. Proceeds, including a raffle, will help to fund the scholarship designed to help provide much needed financial aide to worthy higher education candidates.
On May 30, 2014 Battalion Chief John “Mac” McDonald was scheduled to complete his tour of duty where he was about to complete his shift. Unfortunately, this was to be Chief McDonald’s final tour of duty. John passed away early that morning resulting in a line of duty death.
John was a Navy veteran and a long-time Fire official of the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) where he served as Battalion Chief at the Naval District of Washington Fire and Emergency Services Central Division.
During his extensive career John also served as Chief for the Stafford County Virginia Volunteer Fire Department, Station 2, where he was a Life Member.
John was also a Charter Member of the Fire and Iron Motorcycle Club, Station 161 (Northern Virginia), where he shared his passion for riding motorcycles with other Fire and Emergency Service First Responders and those affiliated with fire service.
