Pasco County Professional Firefighters
Jason Tucker Memorial Scholarship
IAFF Local 4420 is proud to establish the Jason Tucker Memorial Scholarship, created to honor the life, service, and lasting legacy of Firefighter Jason C. Tucker.
This scholarship exists to support individuals who aspire to serve their communities through the fire service and who demonstrate the values Jason lived by every day — integrity, commitment, compassion, and personal responsibility.
One of Jason’s most meaningful reminders to those around him was simple, yet powerful: “Own your attitude.”
That message serves as the foundation of this scholarship.
Purpose of the Scholarship
The Jason Tucker Memorial Scholarship was established to help the next generation of firefighters pursue their calling and begin their careers in the fire service.
IAFF Local 4420 will award up to $7,500 to assist with tuition, fees, books, and associated costs for applicants who intend to attend an approved Fire Academy program.
This scholarship is intended for individuals who demonstrate strong character, community involvement, and a clear commitment to serving others.
about Jason Tucker
January 2, 1970 – April 23, 2023
Jason C. Tucker was, by all accounts, a firefighter’s firefighter.
He embodied brotherhood, professionalism, and dedication to the job. Jason believed in treating everyone like family, giving your all to this profession, and being the best version of yourself for your crew, your department, and your community. He was compassionate, genuine, quick to laugh, and always willing to step up for others.
Jason loved this job with passion. He loved being on the water, the simple things in life, and the bond shared among firefighters. Above all, he loved his family, his crew, and the people he had the honor of serving and saving.
In 2018, Jason endured an unimaginable loss with the passing of his daughter in a tragic accident. That moment reshaped his outlook on life. When he returned to work, he did so with a renewed sense of purpose — determined to live each day to the fullest, appreciate what truly matters, and encourage others to do the same. He poured himself into special operations training and his assignment on Truck 1, leading through action and attitude.
Jason was diagnosed with cancer in July 2021 and medically retired in July 2022 after 19 years of service with Pasco County Fire Rescue. Even in the face of illness, his dedication never wavered. In 2022, he was named Pasco County Fire Rescue Employee of the Year, an honor that reflected his unwavering commitment to the job, his community, and his fellow firefighters.
Jason’s legacy continues through this scholarship and through those who choose to follow a path of service with the mindset he lived by every day: "Own your Attitude"
How to Apply
All applications for the Jason Tucker Memorial Scholarship must be submitted using the online application form. Applicants will complete the application and upload all required documents directly through the form.
Application Deadline:
🗓️ March 31, 2026
***Applications must be fully completed and submitted by the deadline to be considered. Incomplete applications or missing documentation will not be reviewed.***
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Jason Tucker Memorial Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
1.Be 18 years of age on or before September 1 of the application year.
2. Be a Pasco County resident or have a documented connection to Pasco County Fire Rescue
(Examples include a dependent or family member of a PCFR employee, volunteer, cadet program participant, etc.).
3. Possess a high school diploma or GED
If the applicant has not yet graduated, they must provide a letter from their school guidance counselor confirming they are on track to graduate at the end of the current school year.
4. Intend to enroll in an accredited Fire Academy program within 12 months of receiving the award.
5. Demonstrate strong moral character, community involvement, and a commitment to a career in the fire service.
Required Application Materials
Applicants must submit the following items as part of their application:
1. Personal Essay (500–750 words).
(Choose one essay prompt listed below.)
2. Two (2) Letters of Recommendation.
At least one must be from a teacher, employer, coach, or community leader
Letters from family members will not be accepted
3. Proof of Residency or PCFR Connection.
Examples include a driver’s license, utility bill, or documentation showing a connection to a PCFR employee
4. Resume.
Include work history, volunteer service, certifications, and achievements
Transcript or Diploma/GED Verification
Unofficial transcripts are acceptable
Personal Essay Prompts (Choose One)
Prompt 1
Describe a moment in your life when you realized you wanted to become a firefighter. How has that moment shaped your goals and values?
Prompt 2
Jason Tucker dedicated his life to service. What does “service above self” mean to you, and how do you plan to carry that forward in your fire service career?
Prompt 3
Firefighting requires integrity, resilience, and compassion. Choose one of these qualities and describe how you exemplify it today.
