About J.W. Robinson

James Wesley Robinson was born in Texas and was a World War II Navy veteran. Mr. Robinson joined the Phoenix Fire Department in June of 1953. Robinson was the first black firefighter in the fire department in a time when black men were not readily accepted in any professional occupation. But, Robby (as he was fondly called) soon broke the color barrier and gained the respect of his fellow firefighters and anyone else he contacted. Robby was a large but gentle and compassionate man, yet he had the endurance and strength to perform his fire fighting skills at a superior level. Robby never hesitated to be the first into a burning building or try something new in hope of performing his duties at a higher level. Robby took pride in his job, the Fire Department, and his fellow firefighters. After serving the citizens of Phoenix for more than two decades, Robby retired as a Captain, to his favorite pastime.fishing J.W. Robinson will always be an inspiration to Phoenix Firefighters of all colors and races.