John Giacoma

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran | Colorado Springs Fire Department

Born in California and later relocating to Colorado, John Giacoma is a husband, father of two, Marine veteran, and Fire Lieutenant with the Colorado Springs Fire Department. His path of service has stretched from military deployments overseas to serving his own community here at home.

When asked what led him into the fire service, John explained that after leaving the Marines, he still felt called toward work with purpose.

“Following military service, I sought an opportunity to continue serving in a team environment with a public safety mission.”

What he found in the fire service felt familiar.

“The spirit of mentorship, training culture, and focus on operational readiness resonated immediately.”

That sense of teamwork and shared purpose became what John calls his “true second act.”

But some of his most meaningful work came through a different mission.

A decade ago, John joined the Colorado Springs Fire Department’s Peer Support Team, helping fellow firefighters navigate trauma, stress, and the challenges that often accompany careers in public service.

“The work our team does to advocate for our fellow public servants is the most purposeful work I have been part of.”

John speaks openly about his own experiences with mental health challenges, recovery, and personal growth. Now celebrating 15 years of sobriety, he sees those experiences not as limitations, but as opportunities to support others.

“I am proud to have overcome adversity and turned my life experiences into a force multiplier for others.”

For John, service remains simple:

“Service means placing the needs of others above self.”

And perhaps his strongest reminder to the next generation:

“You don’t have to do this work. You get to.”