Fire News Virginia, June/July 2023

In this issue...

House Fire on Wexwood Place

Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 12100 block of Wexwood Place for a structure fire.

See story on page 12

Fast Stop in Portsmouth

Portsmouth Emergency Communications received a call about a residential fire in the 60 block of Manly Street.

See story on page 14

Possible Hazmat Substance in Richmond

Richmond Fire Department responded to the 1000 block of Semmes Avenue on a possible hazmat call.

See story on page 17

Medevac for Suffolk MVA

Suffolk Fire Rescue crews responded to an MVAwith entrapment in the 5000 block of Pruden Boulevard.

See story on page 24

Chesterfield Kitchen Fire Quickly Extends

Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Gregory Drive for a structure fire.

See story on page 28

Not an Everyday Rescue

The B shift crew at Suffolk Fire Rescue’s Station 5 made an unusual rescue recently.

See story on page 42

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page 4

Training

pages 18 & 30

page 40

Dennis Whittam, Editor

ADay of Remembrance From the Editor’s Desk

To many Star Wars buffs, May 4 has meaning. In 2019, California lawmakers voted to declare May 4 Star Wars Day to commemorate the opening of Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge — a Star Wars theme park. But, what does this day have to do with the May 4 I prefer to think about? The answer is nothing.

I prefer to remember May 4 as St. Florian’s Day and International Firefighter’s Day. International Firefighters’Day was linked to the feast day of St. Florian (the patron saint of all firefighters). Today, many firefighters wear a religious medal of St. Florian. St. Florian was the commander of a firefighting unit in the Roman Empire. He lost his life, with his unit while protecting life and property, just as firefighters all over the world do today. His feast day is May 4. St. Florian is remembered in many parts of central Europe. Many miracles of healing are attributed to his intercession, and he is remembered as a powerful protector to those in danger from fire or water. Take the time to read about St. Florian.

International Firefighters Day came about after a tragedy occurred in Australia. On December 2, 1998, firefighters in Australia were fighting a large wildfire and needed assistance. Their urgent call for help brought in firefighters from all over the area. Not knowing what was in

store for them, a crew formed a five-man strike team and responded. As the five headed out from the fire to refill their tanker with water, a sudden violent wind change hit the area, engulfing the truck in flames, and killing all five members.

J.J. Edmondson, a volunteer Lieutenant and firefighter in Victoria, Australia, was moved by this tragedy and wanted to start a movement to remember the firefighters killed in this tragedy and other tragedies throughout the world. Her New Years resolution in 1999 was to organize an internationally recognized symbol of support and respect for all firefighters and a date for which this could be coordinated worldwide. The date chosen for International Firefighters’Day was linked to the feast day of St. Florian. The International Firefighter Day ribbons are linked to the colors symbolic of the main element’s firefighters work with. The ribbon is similar to the pink breast cancer awareness pin, the firefighter’s ribbon is red for fire and blue for water.

On May 7, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation marked International Firefighters Day by encouraging everyone to Shine Your Light for Firefighters. Buildings and homes were lit in red as a remembrance of International Firefighters Day. In many areas, memorial services were held to remember our fallen brothers and sisters.

In conclusions, I leave you with Lt. J.J. Edmondson’s quote from 1999:

“The role of a firefighter in today’s society be it urban, rural, natural environment, volunteer, career, industrial, defense force, aviation, motor sport, or other is one of dedication, commitment and sacrifice, no matter what country we reside and work in. In the fire service we fight together against one common enemy fire no matter what country we come from, what uniform we wear or what language we speak.”

- Dennis

Collapse at Nashua Drive House Fire

Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 8200 block of Nashua Drive fora structure fire. The callerreported the back of the house was on fire and the fire was quickly spreading. Truck Company 207 arrived to heavy fire showing from the roof and back of the residence. Fire crews quickly stretched multiple handlines and, due to a collapse on the Charlie side, a defensive operation was declared. Crews immediately confirmed all occupants out and the fire was extinguished within 40 minutes. The cause of the fire was determined by the Chesterfield Fire Marshals Office to be discarded smoking materials.

- Fire News photos by CFN Media

House Fire on Wexwood Place

On April 12, 2023, at 1709, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 12100 block of Wexwood Place fora structure fire. Multiple calls began to come into the Chesterfield County Communications Centerreporting a house on fire with heavy fire coming from the roof. Callers also reported that there was possibly somebody trapped inside the house. With those reports, a second-alarm assignment was requested. Engine 220 then arrived to heavy fire showing from the Charlie side of the structure. Crews went into the rescue mode and multiple lines were stretched. Not too long aftergoing into the rescue mode, fire crews learned that the homeownerwas not inside. Crews spent 50 minutes getting the fire knocked down. No injuries were reported and a dog was rescued by a neighbor.

- Fire News photos by CFN Media

3 Displaced by Kilby Ave. House Fire

On May 14, 2023, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 400 Block of Kilby Avenue fora residential structure fire. Emergenc y Communications dispatched the fire at 0615. Engine 2, Engine 1, Rescue 1, Medic 1, Battalion 1, and EMS 1 arrived to heavy smoke showing from the second floorof a two-story, detached residential structure. An aggressive interiorattack was initiated to find and control a well-advanced fire on the second floor. Searches of the interiorfound no occupants and the fire was placed under-control at 0638. The structure suffered heavy smoke and fire damage to the second floor. Three adults were displaced and the American Red Cross was assisting.

- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR

Woodstock Truck Fire

Woodstock crews completed extinguishment of a truck fire on April 13, 2023. The fire destroyed the tractorfollowing a mechanical malfunction.

- Submitted by Zachary Hottel

Rita Lane House Fire Displaces 7

Just after1700 on April 4, 2023, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue were dispatched fora structure fire on Rita Lane, just off of Walnut Drive. First units arrived to find heavy fire and smoke coming from the front porch and roof of a single-family residence. Crews utilized rural watersupply operations due to a lack of hydrants in the immediate area. The fire was brought undercontrol in approximately 30 minutes. The seven occupants were alerted to the fire by functioning smoke alarms, and were able to evacuate priorto the arrival of units. There were no reported injuries and all were receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. The fire was underinvestigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office. SCFR units were assisted on scene by the Fredericksburg Fire Department, Fauquier County Fire and Rescue and Quantico Fire and Emergency Services.

- Submitted by Katie Brady, PIO

Fast Stop in Portsmouth

At 1323 on April 21, 2023, Portsmouth Emergency Communications received a call about a residential fire in the 60 block of Manly Street. Crews arrived to smoke coming from the second-floorwindows and immediately performed an aggressive interior attack. The fire was marked out at 1339. All occupants were able to get out of the home, including three dogs, and they were all being assisted by the American Red Cross. The Portsmouth Fire Marshal’s Office conducted an investigation.

- Photo courtesy of Portsmouth FR

Green Bay Road Barn Fire

On May 13, 21023, at 0515, Farmville Dispatch received a call fora barn on fire on Green Bay midway between Farmville Meherrin and Rice. Farmville Chief Clark was first on scene, and reported the 60- x 100-foot hay barn was on the ground. Farmville E1, Tanker1 and Meherrin E5, Tanker5 and Engine 2 responded. Atractorwas used to separate the hay bales and wet down them down. At 0815 winds to 25mph resulted in the departments being called back to separate the tin roofing and hay and extinguish the remaining fire.

- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel

Goochland Warehouse Fire

On May 6, 2023, Goochland County Fire and Rescue responded to a reported commercial structure fire at the Strickland Manufacturing off of Broad Street Road. Fire crews arrived to find an approximately 19,000-squarefoot warehouse with heavy fire involvement within about 60 percent of the structure. Crews quickly initiated a fire attack aftergaining access to the gated yard, as well as setting up a watersupply from a nearby dry fire hydrant on a pond approximately two miles from the fire. Crews worked formultiple hours to get the fire undercontrol. Goochland had mutual aid assistance from multiple othercounties including Hanover, Henri co, Chesterfield, Powhatan and Louisa. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

Bedsaul Road Brush Fire

The Galax Fire Department responded to a brush fire in the 100 block of Bedsaul Road. Arriving units found a half acre of steep terrain involved. Brush 14’s crew pulled 200 feet of forestry line up the bank by rope to access the fire, while additional units employed backpack blowers to complete a containment line. Command held B14 and Tanker10 to complete mop up. All units cleared in an hour.

- Photos courtesy of Galax FD

- Fire News photo by CFN Media

Possible Hazmat Substance in Richmond

Recently, Richmond Fire Department responded to the 1000 block of Semmes Avenue at Truist Bank fora possible hazmat incident. The callerreported that there was a white powdery substance in an envelope. Once on scene, hazmat crews began to gearup, and Chesterfield HazMat was requested foradditional staffing. Once crews made entry, personnel determined it was a grey grainy substance in an envelope. The items collected were sent to the state lab to determine what the substance was.

- Fire News photos by CFN Media

Quick Stop by Stafford

Just before 0100 on May 11, 2023, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) were dispatched fora structure fire in the 600 block of Payton Drive. First units arrived to find heavy smoke from the front and heavy fire from the rearof a single-family residence. The fire was brought undercontrol in approximately 20 minutes. The fouroccupants were able to get out priorto the arrival of units and none reported injuries. The occupants were first alerted when they heard a noise in the house and then heard the smoke alarms sounding. The occupants received assistance from the American Red Cross. One firefighterwas evaluated fora minorinjury. - Submitted by Katie Brady, PIO

Spotswood Trail House Fire

At approximately 1600 on April 10, 2023, units were dispatched to a house fire in the area of the 3000 block of Spotswood Trail. Units arrived on scene to find a single-story brick structure with fire showing from rearand evidence of fire throughout the attic space. Engine 1 from the Louisa Fire District and Engine 6 from the Trevilians Fire District arrived with BC104 (who took command) and pulled lines to the front and rearof the structure. Units were able to push into the home while extinguishing fire inside the family room, and then battled the fire which had engulfed the attic. The

fire was marked undercontrol within 20 minutes of arrival of the first units. Assistance came from Gordonsville Fire District (24), Zion Crossroads Fire District (7), Mineral Fire District (2), C hief 101 and Captain 103. The rehab unit from Louisa Rescue (1) provided refreshments on the scene. Thanks to Fluvanna and Spotsylvania counties forcovering. The residents were not home at the time of the incident and the Red Cross was called in forsupport. There were no injuries reported.

- Photos courtesy of Louisa County FR

Flammable Liquids Training

The training gave new firefighters on the team the chance to learn hose line and foam skills when attacking flammable liquid types of fires. It was also a good refresherforthe firefighters that have been on the team.

Firefighters from the Central Virginia Flammable Liquids Task Force Team trained recently at the Dominion Energy centerin Chester, on flammable liquid and gas-fed fires. Members participated in a course consisting of a three-hourclassroom session followed by five hours of live fire training on several different props.

- Photos courtesy of Richmond FD

6 Departments at Woodstock Brush Fire

Woodstock Fire crews operated on the scene of a four-acre brush fire in Fort Valley. The April 4, 2023, fire required six depar tments and several hours to contain.

- Submitted by Zachary Hottel

Reported Structure Fire forChesterfield

Chesterfield Fire and EMS crews investigated a reported structure fire during a severe thunderstorm and flash flood warning.

- Fire News photo by CFN Media

Suffolk Garage Fire

Crews from Suffolk Fire Rescue operated at a detached garage fire in the 100 block of Staley Drive recently. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Fatality at James RiverRafting Trip

- Fire News photos by CFN Media

On May 2, 2023, Richmond Fire Department responded to the James Riverin Belle Isle fora waterrescue. Once units arrived, boats were quickly launched in to the river. Crews picked up one person on the rocks. And the second boat continued up river foranotherperson. Crews arrived to find the otherperson trapped beneath the waterand worked to free them. Once fire crews had them out, CPR was immediately initiated. The person was quickly loaded in the ambulance and transported priority to VCU Health, where he laterdied. The victim rescued from the rocks was not injured.

Medevac ForSuffolk MVA

Suffolk Fire Rescue crews responded to an MVAwith entrapment involving a tractor-trailerand a sedan in the 5000 block of Pruden Boulevard. The driverof the sedan had to be extricated from the

vehicle and was medevac’d to Norfolk General by Nightingale with serious injuries.

Cumberland Road Rollover

Randolph District VolunteerFire Department VFD received a call foran overturned carwith a person trapped on Cumberland Road at 0815 on April 7, 2023. Randolph Engine 47 responded with Cumberland Rescue 21. Randolph fire stabilized the vehicle and stretched a line. The victim was in the driver's seat against the door. With Cumberland assistance, they cut the reardooroff to get to the person who said she was not in pain and forced the front dooropen. They were able to remove the person with no apparent injuries. She was transported to Central Hospital by Cumberland Rescue. - Fire News photo by Dan Pempel

Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Hull Street and Sappony Road foran MVAwith entrapment. Medic 225 arrived to find a vehicle upright that had rolled multiple times with a driverheavily entrapped. While crews were extricating the patient, command requested MedFlight to the scene. All lanes of Hull Street were then shut down forMedFlight to land. The patient was loaded into the helicopterand transported to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by CFN Media

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Little Fork Rescues Stuck Cow

May 6, 2023, at 1520, the Little Fork Technical Large Animal Rescue Team was requested to assist a cow that appeared to be stuck at the edge of a pond. The entire area consists of “blackjack soil” and recent rains have not helped the situation. The 1000pound cow had not moved in overseven hours. The cow appeared as though she was in very deep mud and was very tired but had moved a little. Arope was stretched and used to gently tap herrear end, which was just enough annoyance forherto move. The mud was very deep. She would stop every three to fourfeet to build her

strength back up forthe next move. It took heran hourto finally drag herself through the mud, eventually exiting the pond. Once she was out she did not have the strength to stand and the Rescue Team assisted the owners in placing a pen around her(so she would not go back into the pond). We would like to thank the eight volunteers who assisted with the on-scene operation and the 10 volunteers who covered ourstation during ourabsence.

- Photos courtesy of the Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue Team

Galax Handles MVA

The Galax Fire Department responded to a recent MVAat PoplarKnob Road and Rising Sun Lane. Arriving units found a single vehicle on its side with the single occupant still inside. The vehicle ran through guardrail and flipped coming to rest against a phone pole guide wire. Members stabilized the vehicle with a winch and Res q Jack’s, then cut the windshield out to remove the uninjured driver. Care was turned overto Pipers Gap Rescue Squad, while the Virginia State Police and Carroll County Sheriff’s Office investigated. - Photo courtesy of Galax FD

Motorcyclist Dies in MVA

Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Mall Drive and Cranbeck Road fora two-vehicle MVA. While en route, multiple calls came in reporting there were multiple patients with one possibly trapped. An entrapment assignment and an additional ambulance were immediately added to the call. Engine 204 arrived on scene to find an accident between a motorcycle and a car. Fire crews determined they had one red patient who was unconscious and ejected from the motorcycle, and one yellow patient who was trapped in their vehicle. Fire crews quickly extricated the yellow patient and h ad both patients transported priority to local hospitals. Unfortunately, the motorcycle driverlaterdied at the hospital. - Fire News photo by CFN Media

Patches

4 Displaced by Leeland Road Fire

Just after0900 on April 13, 2023, Stafford County Fire and Rescue units were dispatched fora structure fire on Leeland Road nearthe intersection of Deacon Road. Multiple callers reported fire coming from a single-family home. First u nits arrived to fire coming from the front and side of the home. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire, bringing it undercontrol in approximately 10 minutes. The single occupant at the residence at the time of the fire was not injured. Five occupants were displaced and were receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. Two canines perished in the fire. The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire to be an accidental cooking fire. SCFR units were assisted on scene by the Fredericksburg Fire Departm ent.

- Submitted by Katie Brady, PIO

Martinsville VolunteerFire DepartmentCenterville VolunteerFire DepartmentBedford Fire Department

Chesterfield Kitchen Fire Quickly Extends

Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Gregory Drive fora structure fire. Fire crews arrived on scene to find a single-family dwelling with heavy smoke showing from the Alpha side. Crews quickly stretched lines and went into the offensive mode. Fire crews

were able to get a quick knockdown on the fire. It was determined the fire started in the kitchen and then quickly spread from there.

- Fire News photos by CFN Media

House Fire Displaces 2 in Suffolk

Suffolk Fire Rescue Battalion 1, Battalion 2, Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Ladder3, Medic 1, Rescue 1, EMS 1, FM 6, and Safety 1 responded early on the morning of May 11, 2023, to a reported building fire in the 300 Block of Benton Road. First units arrived to

find a single-family residence with heavy smoke and fire showing. Fire crews performed an aggressive interiorattack on the fire. Two occupants were displaced and were being assisted by the Red Cross.

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Rescue Challenge 2023

Crews from numerous technical rescue teams traveled to Northern Virginia recently, to perform intense rescue scenarios as a part of Rescue Challenge 2023. This event is held annually, rotating around the Commonwealth and allows these highly skilled professionals to work with others teams from across the state. These scenarios

require a high level of strategic and tactical coordination. This event truly tests crews’capabilities and allows them to betterserve their community through obtaining valuable experience in unique and stressful situations.

Portsmouth Fire Rescue & Emergency Services Trains

Portsmouth and Suffolk Fire technical rescue teams completed scenarios in confined space rescues. Regionalism has been critical in

large incidents, and continuing ourgreat partnerships remains a priority.

- Photos courtesy of Hanover County FR

- Photos courtesy of Portsmouth FR

Louisa County Live Burn Training

Louisa County Fire/EMS (LCFEMS) personnel conducted live fire training at an acquired structure in the area of Carrs Bridge Road. County careerand volunteermembers from multiple companies within the county were in attendance. There were also instructors from surrounding jurisdictions attending who brought alternative and new technology and techniques to the personnel, who got to train using some thermal imaging technology along with advanced

rural watersupply equipment. Alot was learned and there were no injuries. Thanks to all the LCFEMS personnel and partners who came out forthis training. Units attending included: Mineral VolunteerFire Department, Holly Grove VolunteerFire Department, Co. 5 Locust Creek VolunteerFire Department and Bumpass VolunteerFire Department.

- Photos courtesy of Louisa County FR

Fairfax Push-in for New Engine 444

Fairfax County Fire Station 44’s (Scotts Run) A-shift held a push-in ceremony fortheirnew Engine 444. This tradition dates back to the days of horse-drawn equipment when firefighters had to push equipment back into the station. Thank you to the Fairfax County residents and leadership forproviding us with the latest cutting-edge equipment needed to serve the county.

- Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR

Rodney Mills

New Battalion Chief forNorfolk FR

Congratulations to Norfolk Fire Rescue’s new Battalion Chief Rodney Mills. His promotion went into effect on April 22, 2023.

Richmond FD Thanks Sims Metal forTheirHelp

Back in March, the Richmond Fire Department (RFD) presented plaques to Sims Metal fortheircontinued support of the RFD by allowing the department to cut vehicles placed in different crash configurations to practice safely removing occupants. They also provided lunch to the fire personnel each day of the training.

- Photo courtesy of Richmond FD

- Photo courtesy of Norfolk FR

Helsley Certified by Woodstock FD

Woodstock Fire Department celebrated newly released FirefighterTravis Helsley on April 20, 2023. Travis recently completed his Firefighter1/2 academy and was certified by Woodstock afteran in-house review program.

RegisterforWoodstock Bicentennial Parade

- Submitted by Zachary Hottel

Firefighters from Norfolk Fire Department.

- Photo courtesy of Norfolk FD

AChesterfield Fire Marshal arriving on a scene to investigate a recent structure fire.

- Fire News photo by CFN Media

Registration is now open forthe Woodstock Fire Department Bicentennial Parade to be held on July 15, 2023. Information can be found at www.woodstockfire12.com. All are invited!

Little Fork at Kids and Family Expo

On May 6, 2023, Little Fork participated in the Mom2Mom 1st Annual Kids and Family Expo - held at the CulpeperBaptist Church. The Little Fork Technical Large Animal Rescue Unit appeared at the “touch-a-truck” event. - Photos courtesy of Little Fork FR

Dignitaries Dine with Suffolk FR

GovernorYoungkin was able to spend some time with the crew at Suffolk Fire Rescue’s Station 6. He said the blessing and shared a meal with the crew. The firehouse kitchen table is a special pl ace and it was nice to share it with GovernorYoungkin, MayorDuman and Delegate Brewer. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Encouraging the Students

Recently, the Richmond Fire Department got to be part of the fist bumps forSOLs at Fairfield Court Elementary School. Firefighters, along with some of ourpublic safety partners had a

fun time encouraging the students.

Virginia Chapterof the FirefighterCancer Support Network will hold its third annual Golf Tournament on September18, 2023.

The Virginia Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network will hold its annual Golf Tournament on September 18, 2023 at Lee’s Hill Golf Club in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths for Virginia’s firefighters, and it is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety today. Last year, over 50 Virginia firefighters were diagnosed and eight died from occupational cancer.

The mission of the FCSN is to assist theses firefighters, EMS providers and their immediate families diagnosed with cancer by providing badge to badge support as well as to provide training and assistance to fire departments at no cost.

There’s no better way to honor those we lost and support the fire-

fighters currently fighting occupational cancer. Please support us by being a sponsor or playing in this worthwhile tournament.

For information, please contact Steve Weissman at sweissman@fcsn.net

To register a team or sponsor visit our web site at:

https://events.golfstatus.com/event/3rdannual-firefighters-cancer-support-networkvirginia-golf-tournament/details/registrationdetails or scan here

- Photos courtesy of Richmond FD

Members of Fairfax FR Support TheirBrother

Members of Fairfax County Fire Rescue showed up to support Captain Barry Maham before undergoing a new round of chemo treatment as he continues his battle with cancer. Please keep Captain Maham in yourthoughts and prayers as he fights cancer.

- Photo courtesy of Fairfax FR

Galax Makes Quick Stop

Recently, the Galax Fire Department responded fora vehicle fire in the 1400 block of Pipers Gap Road. Arriving units found a small pickup truck with 50-percent fire involvement. Rescue 4 pulled a line and made quick work of the fire, while Tanker10 and Command 2 temporarily closed the road. The fire was quickly put out and the road opened back up.

- Photo courtesy of Galax FD

Holland Road Tractor-TrailerFire

Suffolk Fire crews responded to a tractor-trailerfire in the 2000 block of Holland Road recently. The driverwas uninjured and the trailerwas empty. Holland Road was shut down forseveral hours in both directions until crews could mitigate all the associated hazards.

- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR

Chincoteague Volunteer Fireman’s Carnival

The Chincoteague Volunteer Fireman’s Carnival features rides, games, fun, and food — Chincoteague Island style! Agreat variety of food is available for purchase from hot dogs and pizza, to clams and oyster fritters. Rides and games for all ages. Live entertainment on the stage. Try your luck at Bingo too. Open June 30, July 1, July 3-4, July 21-22, July 24-29

All proceeds benefit the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company

Two chances to enjoy an OldFashioned Fireworks Display: July 4 to celebrate the birth of our nation and July 29 at the Carnival Grounds. Fireworks begin at 2200.

The Fireman’s Carnival leads up to the world-famous Pony Swim and Auction always held on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July.

NATIONALFALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION AND FIRSTRESPONDER CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE SELECTNEW CHIEFEXECUTIVE OFFICER

Following the recent retirement announcement of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE) Executive Director Chief Ron Siarnicki, the NFFF and FRCE Board of Directors began a nationwide search for a replacement. Utilizing the services of Vetted Solutions, a Washington DC-based executive search firm specializing in non-profit work, the Board-established search committee has selected NFFF Managing Director Victor Stagnaro to lead the organization after Chief Siarnicki finishes his term in December of 2023.

Victor Stagnaro joined the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation staff in 2010 and serves as the Managing Director, overseeing NFFF’s Family and Fire Service Programs, Marketing, and Business Management. Prior to that, he served for 25 years with the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department and retired as the Deputy Fire Chief of Emergency Operations in early 2010. His involvement with the Foundation dates back to 1998, when he served as the Incident Commander for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend for several years; he also served as a member of the initial Ne w York Response Team on 9/11 for the Foundation.

“We are delighted to have Victor take the reins of our organization as he has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and commitment to the mission of both the NFFF and FRCE since joining our team. It was an exhaustive process, and he clearly exhibited the capabilities to take over this leadership role. We look forward to what he will do to move both organizations forward,” said Troy Markel, Chairman of the NFFF Board of Directors.

“I have known Victor back to the days when he served with the Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department and his level of professionalism and commitment to excellence has been his mainstay in all that he has been involved with. I know he will take the FRCE to new levels as it continues to service our Public Safety Partners,” said Chief Ernie Mitchell, Chairman of the FRCE Board of Directors.

Not An Everyday Rescue

The B shift crew at Suffolk Fire Rescue’s Station 5 made an unusual rescue recently. They untangled a hummingbird that had become stuck in a net in the apparatus bay. The bird rested a while, had

some sugarwaterwhile sitting on Battalion Chief Johnson’s hand, and then went on its way.

Remembering the Fallen

Recently, members of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department traveled to Emmittsburg, MD forthe 42nd Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, the official nat ional tribute to fallen firefighters. This year’s service honored 144 firefighters who died in the line of duty, including FCFRD’s own Captain Kimberly Schoppa. Hername was officially added to the memorial wall along with 79 firefighters who died in 2022 and 65

who died in previous years. In addition to paying tribute to Captain Schoppa, ourdepartment members worked behind the scenes to ensure the weekend’s events went well, including performing honorguard duties and serving as part of the fire service’s pipe and drums band. It was a fitting tribute to all fallen heroes both past and present. - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR