Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Volunteer

Job Function

Assistant or Deputy Chief

Years in Fire/EMS:

19

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Lavalette Volunteer Fire Department

Years With Department/Agency

19

My Training:

This is a long list...19 years of active service.

About Me:

I'm a 38 y/o/m, that is divorced/single without children. I've been with the Lavalette VFD for over 19 years. I started at the department as a Probationary Firefighter in 1991, and throughout the years was elected to the rank of Lieutenant in the late 90's. I served two terms as Lieutenant and three terms as Captain before being elected Deputy Chief, which I serve now. Throughout those years, I've always maintained an "active" status. I've been an EMT for the past 18 years as well. I've developed a lot of good friendships through the fire service, to which I refer to these good people as brothers and sisters.

Day Job:

CSX Transportation/Locomotive Electrician

Relationship Status:

Divorced

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

Basically started as something to do, I was a bit younger then, but once you start learning...you want to learn as much as you can. As time has passed over the years, so has the responsibility. I'm happy and devoted to the community of Lavalette, and to neighboring departments when requested by mutual aid.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

I enjoy serving the good people, in the community of Lavalette, WV.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Recruitment, Retention, and Funding...all of which are serious concerns that face the fire service daily. At the current time...Worker's Compensation is a huge problem and concern in the State of WV!