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SALUTE<br />

to First Responders<br />

Why did you decide to be a fireman?<br />

I love helping people and really found I had a knack for it.<br />

More than 22 years ago, I became a volunteer firefighter.<br />

I discovered I loved firefighting and being a part of a community<br />

of brothers and sisters with common goals and interests. I joined<br />

the fire service full-time soon after and have enjoyed it ever since.<br />

How long have you been with Richland Fire Dept?<br />

I started as a full-time firefighter at Richland in November 2003.<br />

I was elected chief in June of this year. I’m very fortunate to have<br />

the best team working with me.<br />

Tell us about your family.<br />

I have a very supportive family. My wife and two children<br />

have always supported anything I do.<br />

What is the toughest thing you’ve experienced<br />

on the job?<br />

I really hate to see anyone hurt. You learn quickly that<br />

emergency situations can happen to anyone.<br />

Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time.<br />

I spend a lot of time with my family. I also enjoy hunting, fishing,<br />

and working on old vehicles.<br />

Chief<br />

Trey<br />

PORCH<br />

RICHLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT<br />

What are three things on your bucket list?<br />

One day I’d love to see all 50 states. I’d like to retire and spend<br />

more time with my family. I’d like to own several classic cars.<br />

Who is someone you admire and why?<br />

Someone I admire is my dad. He passed away seven years ago<br />

and I miss him every day. He loved family, could fix anything,<br />

and was a very kind soul. He was known for always helping<br />

anyone in need.<br />

What advice would you give a young person?<br />

Make every day count. Life flies by and family is so important.<br />

Don’t sweat the small stuff, take lots of pictures, set out to make<br />

a difference, and do your best in everything you do in this life.<br />

106 • NOVEMBER 2023

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