John Gowdy is an Atlantic City legend, who served as an Atlantic City, New Jersey professional firefighter for 27 years, (1980-2007) — reaching the rank of superior officer — retiring as a Captain. Additionally, Gowdy also served the City of Atlantic City as a beach patrol lifeguard from 1973-1980. John Gowdy photo. I wrote about The Gowdy’s back in 2024 and was very moved by a Gowdy sand sculpture at the waters edge created in Normandy, France. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.