Fire News Virginia 2-2026

2-Alarm Franconia

Townhouse Fire

Firefighters from multiple agencies operated at the scene of a two-alarm townhouse fire.

See story on page 4

Fairfax Station Fire Snuffed

Fairfax County firefighters operated on scene of a two-alarm house fire on Kilkenny Lane in Fairfax Station.

See story on page 14

Hanover Handles

Commercial Fire

Units arrived to find a working fire in a wood processing facility.

See story on page 16

Little Fork Handles Hot Shed Fire on Sheads Lane

Little Fork Fire Rescue volunteers were dispatched to a report of a shed fire on Sheads Lane.

See story on page 18

Piper Gap Road Home Destroyed

The Galax Fire Department responded for a structure fire on the 2500 block of Pipers Gap Road.

See story on page 24

Tribute

The Richmond Fire Department gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Staff Battalion Chief Tracy A. Thomas.

See story on page 38

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2-Alarm Franconia

Townhouse Fire

Firefighters from multiple agencies operated at the scene of a two-alarm townhouse fire in the 6500 block of Gladys May Lane in the Franconia area. At 2109 hours, units responded to multiple calls for a quickly spreading fire in an end unit townhouse. Crews arrived to heavy fire showing from two townhomes. A second alarm was requested. Firefighters had the bulk of the fire under control, but continued to mitigate a gas fed fire in the basement of the residence. Washington Gas was called in, as was Fairfax County Fire Rescue, Alexandria Fire Department and George’s County Fire/EMS Department.

Challenging Terrain Makes for a Difficult Fight

The Galax Fire Department responded to a reported brush fire on the 600 block of Link Road, in Grayson County. Arriving units found two-acres involved in steep terrain. Brush 13 and 14, Engine 3 and Tanker 10 pulled lines while firefighters started handlines, rakes and backpack blowers. The fire was brought under control in 45 minutes with another 45 for mop up. The Virginia Department of Forestry assisted along with Baywood Search and Rescue Squad and Twin County E-911.

- Photo courtesy of Galax FD

- Photo courtesy of Alexandria FD

Rice & Mutual Aid Handle Single-Wide Fire

On December 27, 2025, at 1320 hours, Prince Edward Company Dispatch received a call of a single-wide trailer fire on Bowen Court and Route 460 in Rice. A firefighter passing the scene notified dispatch that the trailer was fully involved and everyone was out. Rice, Farmville, Meherrin and Burkeville departments responded. Rice and Farmville were first on the scene and used three handlines to quickly control the fire; other units handled the overhaul.

Little Fork Assist on Christmas Day

- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel

On December 25, 2025 at 0150 hours, Little Fork volunteers were dispatched to assist other volunteer fire companies on a working structure fire in Salem’s area on Eggsbornville Road. The initial units arrived and found that the house had been evacuated as a passerby had discovered the fire and awakened the residents. Little Fork responded with Wagon 9, Tanker 9 and Chief 9; their ambulance crew stood by. We thank the 11 volunteers from Little Fork who left their homes and families on Christmas day to assist with this fire.

- Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR

Roanoke Residential Fire on Courtland Rd.

Roanoke, VA – At 1046 hours, crews were dispatched by the E-911 Center to the 2700 block of Courtland Road NW for reports of a basement fire. The caller advised there was thick black smoke in the basement with people inside the house. Dispatchers instructed the residents to evacuate.

At 1048, the team on Engine 2 A-Shift arrived and reported smoke showing from the corner of the house. The call was upgraded to a working fire. As units marked on scene, additional Medic Trucks and Engine were requested. Crews entered the basement and located fire conditions. One victim was rescued from the first floor through a window and transported to the hospital and two additional victims were treated on scene with minor injuries.

At 1101, a mayday was initiated by firefighters assigned to Engine 5 and Ladder 5 inside the structure. Crews reported they were unable to evacuate. The Rapid Intervention Crew immediately responded and were able to evacuate all team members. At 1106, all crews were outside of the building and Battalion 2 initiated exterior firefighting operations. Four firefighters were transported to a local hospital, two sustained minor injuries, one moderate injuries, and one serious injuries. At this time, 2 firefighters remain hospitalized at a burn center, 2 have been released.

At 1210, the fire was marked under control. “Fireground Operations are more complex in the icy conditions,” explained Chief Hoback, “pulling hose, making entry, connecting to the hydrant is much more difficult when walking across ice. This is one of the things that we train for whether it is a rescue for a citizen or one of our own. We will continue to provide support for our team members and their families as they navigate the recovery process.”

The families of the injured firefighters have been notified.

The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time by the Fire Marshal’s Office and updates will be shared as they become available.

Thank you to the Roanoke Police Department, Roanoke City Sheriffs Office, REMS, and E-911 Dispatch Center who provided assistance during this incident.

- Photos courtesy of Roanoke Fire & EMS

Buckingham County House Fire

At 2015 hours on December 9, 2025, Buckingham Dispatch toned out Toga, Dillwyn and Buckingham, and Randolph District volunteer fire departments for a two-story house fire on Mill Road off Route 15. The house looked like a 1860-era house with an addition on the A side and the C\D side. The owner had advised the firefighters he was the only resident. They attacked the fire from interior on the A side to the second floor. The fire was on the second floor and

in the cockloft. An order was to back out was given and the fire was attacked with three lines to the second floor, knocking down the fire. Firefighters re-entered the second floor to pull the ceilings and walls and extinguish the fire in the cockloft. They were on site till about 0015 in below freezing temperatures.

- Fire News photos by Dan Pempel

Fatality at Zion Crossroads House Fire

The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office and Louisa County Fire and EMS responded to a residential structure fire in the 2000 block of West Green Springs Road. Three occupants were inside the residence at the time of the fire. Two exited the home safely and were evaluated on scene by EMS personnel. A third occupant, an adult male, was unable to escape and was located inside the residence following fire suppression efforts. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Virginia State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

- Fire News photos by Carter Killorn

Working Residential Fire on Grove Ave.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 100 block of Grove Avenue for a residential structure fire. Suffolk Emergency Communications Dispatch Center dispatched the incident at 2117 hours. Units arrived to smoke showing from the front door of a single-story residence. Engine 1 attacked the fire while Engine 2 and Rescue 1 conducted searches. Two dogs were removed from the house uninjured. The fire was contained to a bedroom, which sustained moderate fire and smoke damage. The fire was placed under control at 2150. Three adults and one child were displaced by the fire. Responding units included Battalion 1, Car 5, Car 10, Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 4, Ladder 6, Rescue 1, Medic 1, EMS 1, and Safety 1.

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Structure Fire on Bowie Road in Woodlawn

Arriving units found a 2000-square-foot, single-story residential with fire showing from an attached garage . Galax Fire Department Engine 1 arrived and pulled two crosslays to begin extinguishment. Hillsville Squad 1 pulled the RIT line and vented the roof. Teamwork brought the fire under control in 15 minutes with 2-1/2 hours of strenuous overhaul. The two occupants were able to escape prior to department’s arrival. Proud of the all-out effort by the troops who saved many items from the home. It was a pleasure working with all of our mutual aid partners which included Hillsville, Laurel Fork, Pipers Gap Rescue, American Electric Power-AEP, and Twin County E-911. Thanks to Fries Fire and Rescue for backfilling our station.

- Photo courtesy of Galax FD

Fairfax Station Fire Snuffed

Fairfax County firefighters operated on scene of a two-alarm house fire in the 6500 block of Kilkenny Lane in Fairfax Station. Units arrived to find a single-family home with a large volume of fire showing from the roof. The fire was brought under control and there were no reported civilian or firefighter injuries. Units: E432M, E414M, E441M, E427M, T441M, TL403M, R405, M432, M414, EMS402, BC443, BC407, SAF401, PIO402, DC401, IV14, E435M, TL440M, HM401, ALS403, BC405, M435, LA423, IVO3, FE403M, E416M, E423M, TL422, M403, CAN422, BC408, EMS403 and CA401.

Total Loss in Landon Street Trailer Fire

Farmville, Hampden-Sydney, Rice, and Randolph District volunteer fire departments responded to Landon Street in Farmville for a trailer fire with the occupant out of the home at 0135 hours on December 22, 2025. On arrival Farmville and Hampden-Sydney making the initial attack as the other companies stretched 700 feet of four inch to the hydrant. The trailer was a total loss. The outside walls were pulled off to extinguish all remaining fire and crews were done at about 0340 after applying foam. The ambient temperature was 21 degrees F.

- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel

- Photo courtesy Fairfax County FR

Hanover Handles Commercial Fire

Little Fork Handles Hot Shed Fire on Sheads Lane

On December 30, 2025, Little Fork Fire Rescue volunteers were dispatched to a report of a shed fire on Sheads Lane. Units arrived to find a small shed fully involved with tires, flammable liquids and other automotive items in it. Due to the contents and wood plank walls the fire was producing a very high amount of radiant heat; the fire started igniting a two-car garage that was 10-feet away. Quick actions by the crews saved the larger structure and its contents. They cooled the exposure and began an aggressive attack on the main body of fire. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes of arrival. Extensive overhaul was performed. The following units responded: Wagon 9, Tanker 9, Brush 9, Chief 9 Ambulance 9 and Chief 9-2. Eleven volunteers responded to the scene and we had an additional 11 volunteers standby at the station. Thanks to the 22 volunteers who responded to this call. We also express our gratitude to Company 1403 for providing an additional tanker to assist. - Photos courtesy of Little Fork FR

Roanoke Extinguish Kitchen Fire

On January 23, 2026 at 1757 hours, Roanoke crews were dispatched by the E-911 Center to reports of a kitchen fire in an apartment located in the 700 block of Hunt Avenue NW. The team on Engine 2 B-Shift arrived at 1801 and reported smoke showing from the stairwell. The incident was upgraded to a working fire. As additional apparatus arrived to the scene, crews quickly went to work searching the structure and extinguishing the flames. The fire was contained to the kitchen and marked under control at 1806. No one was displaced as a result of the fire. No injuries were reported. - Photo courtesy Roanoke Fire & EMS

Buckingham County Brush Fire

On November 16, 2025, Central Virginia was on a Red Flag fire day due to high winds and dry weather till 1700 hours. Buckingham County received a call at 1305 for a brush fire on Route 15 north of Stage Coach Road. Buckingham dispatched three companies and forestry units and mutual aid from Farmville and Randolph for tankers and brush trucks. Buckingham units covered the north and west sides of the fire and Farmville and Randolph covered the east and south sides to prevent the fire from jumping Route 45. State Forestry which was on duty due to the winds used a dozer to cut the fire line on the south side. The fire was brought under control and contained in about 30 minutes and burned about three acres of woods. - Fire News photo by Dan Pempel

Rescue from Culvert in McLean

Fairfax County Fire Rescue crews responded to reports of a child trapped in a culvert in the 1900 block of MacArthur Drive in McLean. The child had been playing when he became stuck in the snow above the culvert. Crews worked quickly to free the child; there were no injuries.

- Photos courtesy Fairfax County FR

MOTLEY CREW OF THE MONTH

Piper Gap Road Home Destroyed

On January 30, 2026, the Galax Fire Department responded for a structure fire on the 2500 block of Pipers Gap Road. First arriving units found a well involved residential structure fire. Two occupants were outside of the residence, alerted by a neighbor and a passing Virginia Department of Transportation plow driver. E2 pulled 150-feet of 2-1/2 inch hose with a gated Y (wye) as well as two preconnects up through the frozen yard, then began the fire attack. The driveway was steep and inaccessible for apparatus. E3 utilized a neighbor’s yard to assist. The roof collapsed with members underneath causing a rapid evacuation. Sadly, the home was a total loss. The American Red Cross was assisting the family of five. Thanks to Hillsville Fire Department, Pipers Gap Rescue Squad, Inc. and Carroll County Sherriff’s Office for their assistance.

- Photos courtesy of Galax FD

3 Displaced from

Breezeport Way Fire

Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 3900 Block of Breezeport Way for an apartment fire. Suffolk Emergency Communications Dispatch Center dispatched the incident at 0038 hours. Engine 5 arrived to find smoke showing from a first-floor unit of a two-story apartment building. Engine 5 performed an aggressive interior attack while Ladder 5 and Rescue 2 conducted searches; searches were clear. The fire unit sustained significant fire damage within the kitchen, with moderate smoke damage throughout the rest of the home. The fire was placed under control at 0056. One adult and two children were displaced by the fire and were assisted by the American Red Cross. Responding units included Battalion 2, Car 10, Engine 5, Engine 10, Engine 11, Engine 9, Ladder 5, Ladder 11, Rescue 2, Medic 5, EMS 2, Safety 1, Chesapeake Engine 12, Chesapeake Ladder 10 and Fire Marshal 8.

- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR

2 FFs, 2 Civilians

Transported from West Springfield Fire

Fairfax County Fire Rescue responded to the scene of a house fire in the 7900 block of Jansen Court, in West Springfield. Units responded to a single-family home with a person trapped. Crews arrived to fire coming from rear of the residence. Firefighters quickly began fire suppression and search operations. The fire was under control. Two civilians were transported, one with life-threatening injuries and one with non-life-threatening injuries. Two firefighters were transported with non-life-threatening injuries. Fire Department, City of Alexandria, VA assisted on scene.

- Photo courtesy Fairfax County FR

Annual Wise Regional Fire School Draws a Crowd

The Annual Wise Regional Fire School was held September 11 to 14, 2025. Approximately 450 students, instructors, and VA Department of Fire Programs staff from every part of the Commonwealth attended. Thursday and Friday focused on Train-the-Trainers for

instructors in several disciplines. The weekend consisted of 13 classes including machinery rescue, confined space operations, advanced drafting, advanced thermal imaging, and elevator rescue.

- Submitted by Chad Stanley, Division 4 Chief

Alexandria Conducts Ice Rescue Training

With temperatures dropping, the Alexandria Fire Department took advantage of ice formed on a local pond to conduct ice rescue training. Crews practiced specialized techniques and safety procedures to prepare for emergencies involving people or animals on frozen water.

- Photo courtesy of Alexandria FD

Joint Propane Training at Framatome

On November 20, 2025, Engine 13, Tanker 13-3, and Command 13 traveled to Framatome’s Mt. Athos facility, within their first-due area, for a joint propane training class with live fire evolutions. Members from Company 13, the Framatome Emergency Team, Appomattox Volunteer Fire Department, Rustburg VFD, and Hurt VFD were all in attendance. Members from all departments learned and worked together on how to safely attack propane fires. - Submitted by Ryan Davis

Richmond FD at High School Job Fair

The Richmond Fire Department was proud to attend the Richmond High School Job Fair! We appreciated the opportunity to connect with students who are curious about careers in fire service. Hopefully we’ll be seeing some familiar faces joining us in the near future.

- Photos courtesy of Richmond FD

Captain Nate Larkin awarded the Mike Tamillow Award of Excellence

VA-TF1 recently awarded the Mike Tamillow Award of Excellence, created in honor of former Chief Tamillow’s exceptional contributions to national and international search and rescue. Congratulations to this year’s recipient, Captain Nate Larkin! This award is presented annually to a team member who exemplifies

selflessness by consistently prioritizing the well-being of the team and others. The recipient works to improve team dynamics, develop skill sets, mentor the next generation, and foster a supportive environment.

- Photos courtesy of VA TF-1 Urban Search & Rescue

Governor Spanberger has Announced the Appointment of Jamey Brads as Deputy Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.

With more than 30 years in the fire service, Brads has served at every level, from firefighter to chief officer, and has extensive experience in training, operations, and special operations. Since joining VDFP in 2016, he has held key leadership roles including Chief of Special Operations and Chief of Training and Operations.

Virginia Department of Fire Programs also extends its sincere appreciation to Nick Nanna for his dedicated service as Deputy Director under Governor Youngkin’s administration. Nanna oversaw training and operations, safety, and government affairs, and played a key role in advancing agency initiatives. We wish him all the best in retirement.

- Photo courtesy VDFP

David Puckett Next Fire Rescue Chief in Albemarle County

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors has named David Puckett as the new Chief of the Albemarle County Fire Rescue Department (ACFR). His appointment was effective January 8, 2026.

Puckett’s selection is the result of a thorough recruitment process following the retirement of Fire Rescue Chief Dan Eggleston. The county engaged a recruitment firm to support the outreach and engagement of key stakeholders and staff to determine the key attributes, experiences, and leadership qualities necessary for the next Fire Rescue Chief. Survey results emphasized the importance of experience leading a combination career and volunteer department, building strong relationships across the region, and a commitment to the continuity of initiatives already underway. Based on this feedback, the firm strongly recommended the selection of an internal candidate.

To launch the interview process, County Executive Jeff Richardson met with all interested employees who met the minimum requirements. The process then included panel interviews with 15 evaluators representing the Fire and EMS Board, ACFR staff, county department leadership, community stakeholders, and county executive leadership.

out his extensive career with Albemarle County,” said Albemarle County Board of Supervisors Chair Ned Gallaway. “We are confident he will continue to lead this critical department with innovation and reliability as ACFR’s next chief.”

“Early in the recruitment process, it became clear that the next chief must be a proven leader with deep operational knowledge and established trust within the department and throughout the community,” shared County Executive Jeff Richardson. “David’s long-standing relationships with both career and volunteer personnel, combined with his understanding of the combination system and our county’s unique qualities and needs, position him well to lead ACFR into its next chapter.”

“David’s leadership has been demonstrated time and again through-

Puckett brings more than 27 years of service with ACFR, including the last 13 as Deputy Chief of Operations. His career includes leadership roles as Captain and Battalion Chief, including serving as one of the department’s first Battalion Chiefs. Hired in 1998, Puckett was one of ACFR's first nine career firefighters.

As Deputy Chief of Operations, Puckett has overseen the readiness and response of approximately 200 career and 300 volunteer personnel across the Fire and EMS system. His leadership includes leading the implementation of the department’s first Drug Enforcement Administrationcompliant medication supply system and the development of the department’s first Standards of Cover process, which resulted in the BOS adopting the first Fire and EMS service objectives in 2018. He has also served as the agency lead for the replacement of the regional computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, improving dispatch accuracy and resource allocation, and designed and implemented ACFR’s first comprehensive Career Development Program.

“I look forward to continuing to serve Albemarle County by leading this department as we strengthen our department’s foundation and ensure that Albemarle County Fire Rescue remains a trusted, high-performing organization dedicated to the safety and well-being of the people of Albemarle County,” said Chief Puckett.

- Photo courtesy of Albemarle County FR

Hopewell Gets Donation from Arrowwood Treatment Center

Hopewell Fire & EMS would like to sincerely thank Arrowwood Addiction Treatment Center for their generous donation of nearly $10,000 to support and enhance the department’s Drone Program. Earlier this year, two newly certified drone pilots identified limitations with the existing equipment, including extended deployment times and reduced effectiveness. The department had been operating with two older drone platforms that, due to advancing technology, were no longer meeting operational needs. While the need for updated technology was clear, funding had previously been unavailable.

Arrowwood Addiction Treatment Center reached out to Hopewell Fire & EMS with an offer to assist, making it possible to purchase a new drone from ANZU Robotics, an American-based company headquartered in Austin, Texas, focused on providing secure, high-performance, and affordable drone solutions.

The new drone offers all the capabilities of the previous models while being smaller, more rapidly deployable, and capable of livestreaming real-time video to Command Staff and the City’s Emergency Operations Center. The donation also allowed for the purchase of additional batteries—providing approximately two hours of total flight time — and a speaker system to assist with communication during emergency situations.

This upgraded technology will support operations during structure fires, hazardous materials incidents, search and rescue missions on land and water, and many other emergency responses.

Once again, Hopewell Fire & EMS extends our appreciation to Arrowwood Addiction Treatment Center for their generosity and continued partnership in supporting public safety within the City of Hopewell.

- Photo courtesy Hopewell Fire & EMS

Looking Back Sterling, Virginia 1985

Inaugural Tech Rescue Conference in Norfolk

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) supported the Technical Rescue Association of Virginia with the Inaugural East Coast Technical Rescue Conference in Norfolk on January 9 to 11, 2026. The event drew more than 200 participants, presenters and vendors in all backgrounds of technical rescue. Deputy Director Jamey Brads emceed the event, while several Special Operations

adjunct instructors presented. These included Erik Muhlenhaupt (Beyond the Block and Tackle: A Model for Decision Making in Confined Space Rescue Rigging); Josh Thomson (Lifting Operations Involving Heavy Vehicles); and Jon Kibler and Zeb Lilly (Ladder-as-a-Derrick Quick Look Testing).

- Photos courtesy VDFP

Join the Firefighter Cancer Support Network Be the Difference Our Firefighters Deserve

Cancer is the leading health threat to firefighters. Every day, firefighters face exposures that increase their cancer risk. Yet, when the diagnosis comes, too many face it alone. That’s where the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) steps in.

Since 2005, FCSN has been dedicated to providing support to firefighters, EMS Providers and their families facing cancer. Through our network, we deliver one-on-one support, education, and resources to help members of the fire service navigate one of the toughest battles of their lives.

Now, we’re looking for more people like you to join our mission.

Why Join FCSN?

When you volunteer with FCSN, you become part of a national movement committed to reducing cancer in the fire service and supporting those already affected. Whether you’re a firefighter, a survivor, a

family member, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, there’s a role for you.

Our volunteers help by:

• Providing support to firefighters and families facing cancer diagnoses.

• Educating departments about cancer prevention and early detection.

• Organizing and supporting local events, fundraisers, and awareness initiatives.

• Advocating for healthier practices and safer working environments within the fire service.

Who We’re Looking For?

We’re seeking compassionate, dedicated individuals who believe in giving back to the fire service. You don’t need to have experienced cancer yourself; just a desire to help and the willingness to learn. Training and resources are provided to ensure every volunteer is ready to make a meaningful impact.

How to Get Involved.

Joining is simple. Visit firefightercancersupport.org or scan the QR code and complete the volunteer application. From there, an FCSN representative will contact you to discuss opportunities that match your skills and interests.

Join today at: https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/how-you-canhelp/volunteer

5th Annual FCSN Golf Tournament Tees Up Another Successful Year

The Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) hosted its 5th Annual FCSN-Virginia Golf Tournament on September 15, 2025, in Fredericksburg. Firefighters, sponsors, and supporters arrived for a day of camaraderie, competition, and commitment, raising critical funds to support firefighters battling cancer. With perfect weather and a full roster of teams, participants hit the greens with enthusiasm and purpose with the motto: “Let’s Fight Cancer One-Swing at a Time.”

The day began with a memorial service honoring the 10 firefighters who lost their lives to cancer since the last golf tournament and recognizing the 41 Virginia firefighters diagnosed just this year.

The tournament featured numerous raffle prizes and several contests, such as “Longest Drive” and “Closest to the Pin.” Participants and attendees were treated to a post-tournament banquet where prizes were awarded, and the successes of the day were celebrated.

“Each year, we grow stronger and more united in our mission to sup-

port firefighters and their immediate family diagnosed with cancer. With a rise in cancer diagnoses among Virginia firefighters, events like this golf tournament are more crucial than ever”, stated Steve Weissman, a cancer survivor and the FCSN – Virginia State Director. “We owe a great debt of gratitude to our sponsors and volunteers who made this golf tournament a success. Without their generous contributions, events like this wouldn’t be possible. Their support enables us to provide essential resources for firefighters”.

The tournament concluded with recognizing cancer survivors and family members who shared their journeys, reaffirming the importance of awareness and support in combating cancer within the firefighting community.

For more information on how to support the Firefighter Cancer Support Network or participate in future events, visit our website at www.firefightercancersupport.org. - Submitted by Steve Weissman

EX-CHIEF BOB KUTCH JOINS KONSTANT DESIGN

After 30+ years of sales and service experience, to continue providing the Fire Service with the quality of products and attention you need and expect, I have made the decision to join the Konstant Design team as of January 1, 2026.

Konstant Design is known for excellent service and attention to detail in the custom apparel design and manufacturing industry. Whether your department is celebrating a wet down for a new vehicle, hosting a local or regional parade or honoring a fallen brother or sister, we stand ready to work with you to design a top quality garment.

I look forward to continuing my many valued, existing relationships and to bringing new customers on board as we move forward together to honor the service of our brother and sister firefighters.

Konstant Design –Premium Apparel. Bold Designs. Built to Perform.

KUSSMAUL ELECTRONICS WELCOMES DAMON LEWIS AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Kussmaul Electronics proudly announces the appointment of Damon Lewis as Vice President of Sales, effective December 2025. This strategic leadership addition reflects Kussmaul’s continued commitment to the Emergency Vehicle industry and its future growth. Damon brings more than two decades of experience in the Emergency Vehicle industry and is widely recognized for his ability to foster long‐term customer relationships, lead high‐performing sales teams, and drive strategic growth. He has held senior roles in sales and business development at Whelen Engineering, Code 3, and Fouts Bros., serving both domestic and international markets across Fire and EMS segments.

His leadership background, combined with technical product expertise and a deep understanding of operational challenges, makes Damon uniquely equipped to understand the evolving needs of the industry and deliver practical, effective solutions. In his new role at Kussmaul, Damon will lead the company’s sales team and commercial strategy across North America and international markets, with a focus on customer experience, growth, and strengthened relationships across the Emergency Vehicle industry. He will work closely with OEMs, dealers, and departments to expand the company’s market presence while upholding the high standards of quality and service that Kussmaul is known for. Additionally, Damon will serve as Vice President of International Sales for MCE Vehicle Power, where he will work closely with Xantrex, one of Kussmaul’s sister companies, to strengthen the division’s global presence. “We’re excited to welcome Damon to the Kussmaul leadership team,” said Dale Tompkins, President of Vehicle Power at MCE. “His experience, integrity, and customer‐first mindset align perfectly with our mission to support those who serve.”

Damon’s appointment marks an important step forward in Kussmaul’s commitment to providing dependable, innovative power solutions that keep emergency vehicles energized and ready when seconds count.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Valeria

Donoghue

Marketing Manager valeria.donoghue@mce‐llc.com

CONGRESS PASSES LEGISLATION PROVIDING CANCER BENEFITS TO FAMILIES OF FALLEN PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation applauds lawmakers for including the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act as key provision in 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.

Honor Act ensures families of public safety officers who have died or become permanently disabled due to certain service-related cancers can receive federal benefits.

EMMITSBURG, MD (December 17, 2025) — Congress has approved legislation that extends line-of-duty death and disability benefits to the families of public safety officers who have died or become permanently disabled in the line of duty.

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which was included as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to include certain occupational cancers. The PSOB program provides one-time financial payments to the families of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who have died or become permanently disabled in the line of duty, as well as educational benefits to the spouses and children of fallen officers.

“On behalf of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, I applaud the House and Senate for passing this important bipartisan legislation. I especially would like to thank Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Kevin Cramer, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, and Congressman Carlos Gimenez for leading this effort,” said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep their communities safe. By recognizing fire service–related cancers under the PSOB program, we ensure that those who risk their health for others receive the support they and their families deserve. I especially want to thank our brave Fire Hero Families who tirelessly advocated for the passage of this vital legislation. Their dedication, passion, and tenacity are why this bill will soon become law.”

The legislation will now go to the White House for President Donald Trump to sign into law.

For more information on the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program, please visit: https://bja.ojp.gov/program/psob.

For more information on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, please visit: https://www.firehero.org/.

The Richmond Fire Department gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Staff Battalion Chief Tracy A. Thomas.

Thank you, Chief Thomas, for your dedication to the Fire Service and for the love you poured into our fire family. We will carry your legacy forward in the work we do, the way we lead, and the way we care for one another. Rest easy. - Photos courtesy of Richmond FD