John Chung, Public Service Award 2025

The City of San Rafael is proud to recognize longtime resident and community champion John Chung as the 2025 recipient of the Richard O'Brien and Mary Ferrario O'Brien Public Service Award.

A retired Lieutenant of the San Francisco Fire Department, John has spent his life in service to others-and even in retirement, he continues to give back in countless ways.

As a dedicated member of the San Rafael Fire Commission, John played a key role in celebrating the Fire Department's 150th anniversary, helping organize six community open houses in 2024 that invited residents to tour stations, meet firefighters, and learn vital safety tips. His support didn't stop there-John regularly volunteers with the department, joining ride-alongs and lending a hand during major incidents, further deepening community ties.

Beyond his fire service contributions, John and his wife, Dr. Cindy Chung, have been longtime supporters of youth music programs at Glenwood Elementary, Davidson Middle School, and San Rafael High School. For over a decade, they've provided technical support, sound equipment, and fundraisers to keep these programs strong-including ten years managing the sound system at the beloved HeadsUp Summerfest/Carnival.

John has also made a lasting impact on local student-athletes as a coach for the San Rafael High School boys' and girls' golf teams, ensuring access to the sport for all students through creative fundraisers like the Living Room Concert series and A Second Cup of Coffee speaker series. His leadership on and off the course has helped student-athletes grow in confidence, teamwork, and resilience.

Through it all, John Chung has embodied the very spirit of public service-quietly, humbly, and powerfully shaping lives and building community.

On Monday, April 7, 2025, the San Rafael City Council proudly presented John with the Richard O'Brien and Mary Ferrario O'Brien Public Service Award on behalf of a grateful city.

Congratulations, John-and thank you for all you do!