The Salisbury Fire Department hosted its annual Awards Banquet on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Catawba College’s Crystal Lounge, honoring the achievements, bravery, and dedication of its personnel over the past year. Fire Chief Bob Parnell recognized the steadfast commitment of all department members, highlighting individuals who demonstrated exemplary service.
“The Salisbury Fire Department is incredibly proud of each of our firefighters and their unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the citizens of Salisbury,” said Chief Bob Parnell. “These awards highlight just a few of the outstanding individuals who make our department strong, and we are honored to celebrate their achievements.”
Among the top honors:
- Division Chief Shawn McBride was named Chief Officer of the Year for his exceptional leadership and dedication to the department’s mission.
- Fire Captain Spencer White received the Joe Jenkins Company Officer of the Year Award, reflecting his strong leadership and commitment to his team.
- Firefighter Luiz Vazquez was recognized as Justin Monroe Rookie of the Year for his hard work and dedication in his first year of service.
- Fire Engineer Ronald Alston was honored as Victor Isler Veteran of the Year, celebrating 22 years of devoted service.
- Firefighter John Walters was named Fire Department Medical Responder of the Year for outstanding contributions in emergency medical care.
- Fire Inspector John McCartney received the Bernard Penley Service Above Self Award, recognizing his exceptional commitment to serving the community.
- Engineer Christian Lambis received both the Purple Heart and the Medal of Valor for heroic actions during a dangerous fire rescue in an abandoned bus, saving a trapped individual despite sustaining injuries.
Salisbury Fire Department also recognized several achievements and promotions:
Advanced Operations Crew Leaders:
- Engineer Michael Freeman
- Engineer Ethan Chirico
- Engineer Matt Cline
- Engineer Christian Lambis
- Engineer Alan Overcash
- Engineer Jake Richardson
- Engineer Tyler Thorpe
- Engineer Michael Wood
Ladder Technician:
- Firefighter Chandler Bassinger
- Engineer Derry Brown
- Firefighter Damien Clow
- Firefighter Cole Earnhardt
- Firefighter Kyle Munday
- Firefighter Kody Redmond
Engine Technician:
- Firefighter Emily Bame
- Firefighter Chandler Bassinger
- Firefighter Jonathan Bowman
- Firefighter Damien Clow
- Firefighter Josh Helms-Shermer
- Firefighter Chris Newman
- Firefighter Kody Redmond
- Firefighter Trevor Scully
- Firefighter Jacob Warner
Completion of Rookie Packet:
- Firefighter Abigail Bruce
- Firefighter Ryan Bean
- Firefighter Jose Escobar
- Firefighter James Galliher
- Firefighter June Hurst
- Firefighter Evan Shepherd
- Firefighter Trevin Signor
- Firefighter Luiz Vazquez
- Firefighter Jacob Warner
Hazmat Technician:
- Firefighter Josh Helms-Shermer
- Firefighter Zach Huntley
- Firefighter Scotland Karriker
- Engineer Quinzavious Sands
- Firefighter Trevor Scully
Rescue Technician:
Promoted to Deputy Chief
Promoted to Battalion Chief:
- Battalion Chief Steven Williams
Promoted to Captain:
- Captain Henry Horne
- Captain Jarred Hoke
Promoted to Engineer:
- Engineer Derry Brown
- Engineer Christian Lambis
- Engineer Tyler Phinney
Promoted to Senior Firefighter:
- Firefighter Cole Earnhardt
- Firefighter Timothy Flanagan
- Firefighter Zach Huntley
- Engineer Christian Lambis
- Firefighter Landon Tilley
- Firefighter Dalton Warren
The Salisbury Fire Department congratulates all award recipients and extends its gratitude to all firefighters who continue to uphold the highest standards of service and dedication.