Volunteer Firefighters from Across Alabama Gather for 49th Annual AAVFD Conference in Muscle Shoals

49th Annual AAVFD Conference; Volunteer Firefighters Unite for Training, Competition & Fellowship

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

MUSCLE SHOALS, Ala. — Volunteer firefighters, emergency responders, industry professionals, and supporters from across Alabama gathered June 11-13 for the 49th Annual Alabama Association of Volunteer Fire Departments (AAVFD) Conference, hosted this year by the Colbert County Association of Volunteer Fire Departments.

The three-day event provided opportunities for training, networking, leadership development, fellowship, and recognition of the dedicated men and women who serve their communities through volunteer fire departments.

Conference activities began Thursday and Friday with a variety of educational and hands-on training opportunities. Attendees participated in classes covering sonar education, vehicle extraction techniques, and practical training utilizing Alabama Fire College props, including a driving simulator, burn trailer, and confined space training modules.

Throughout the conference, more than 70 vendors showcased products and services specifically designed for the fire service, EMS, and emergency response community. Departments had the opportunity to explore the latest firefighting equipment, rescue tools, EMS supplies, apparatus, technology, training resources, department services, and first responder apparel. Vendors represented nearly every aspect of public safety, offering departments valuable insight into equipment and innovations that can help improve service to their communities.

A meaningful feature of the conference was the Global War on Terror Wall of Remembrance, which remained on display throughout the event. The memorial honors and remembers the sacrifices made by brave men and women during the Global War on Terror from 1983 to the present day. Its mission is to preserve the stories of those who served, including the heroes and victims of September 11, 2001.

Friday evening featured one of the conference’s most anticipated fellowship events as approximately 500 attendees gathered for a community cookout and casino night hosted by the Colbert County Fire Association and sponsored by VFIS. Guests enjoyed a meal of pulled pork, grilled chicken, baked beans, and potato salad before enjoying live music from Joseph Baldwin.

Following the cookout, attendees participated in a casino-themed game night provided by Alliance Game Rentals. Organizers emphasized the event was strictly for entertainment purposes and did not involve real gambling or monetary prizes.

Saturday afternoon, so of the members attended the AAVFD Annual Business Meeting, where officers were elected to serve the organization for the coming year. Those elected included Billy Doss as President, Joey Moffett as South Vice President, Michael Gordon as Central Vice President, Joey Boyd as North Vice President, Jerry Jackson as Treasurer, and Mary Sells as Secretary.

The conference concluded Saturday evening with the Annual Firefighter Banquet featuring Chris Stewart as keynote speaker. Stewart, a 25-year broadcasting veteran and the lead radio play-by-play voice of Alabama Crimson Tide football, shared his testimony of overcoming a stroke and a near-fatal infection following heart surgery in 2018.

Stewart spoke about the life-changing events that nearly claimed his life and expressed gratitude for the first responders who were there during some of his most difficult moments. He credited both those emergency responders and his faith in Jesus Christ for helping him survive and continue his career.

Several awards were presented during the banquet, recognizing outstanding service and dedication within Alabama’s volunteer fire service.

Some of the award recipients included:

• AAVFD Auxiliary Sportsmanship Award — Elkmont Volunteer Fire Department

• AAVFD Auxiliary Scholarship — Nevaeh Wagner, Dogtown Fire Department

• Sherry Garner Memorial Award — Alma Bowen, Waugh Mt.-Meigs Volunteer Fire Department

• Firefighter of the Year — Earl Dailey, Camden Volunteer Fire Department

• President’s Award — Charlie Dixon, Thomasville Volunteer Fire Department

The 49th Annual AAVFD Conference once again showcased the dedication, professionalism, and camaraderie that define Alabama’s volunteer fire service. From advanced training and educational opportunities to fellowship and recognition, the conference provided an opportunity for firefighters across the state to strengthen skills, build relationships, and celebrate the important work they perform in their communities every day.

Following the banquet, attendees gathered outdoors for a fireworks display sponsored by Alabama U.S. Senator Barry Moore. The show served as a fitting finale to the three-day conference, bringing firefighters, families, and guests together one last time before concluding the 49th Annual AAVFD Conference.

The Weekly Ledger News extends its appreciation to the Colbert County Association of Volunteer Fire Departments for hosting a successful and well-organized conference, the AAVFD Auxiliary, and looks forward to the 50th Annual AAVFD Conference, which will be hosted in Tuscaloosa by the Alabama Fire College.

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