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NVFC Honors Chief Glenn Jernigan for Lifetime Achievement

Published Date: 04.14.2011

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) bestowed the 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award to Chief Glenn Jernigan of Faison (NC) Fire and Rescue. The award, sponsored by Scott Safety, annually recognizes an individual whose remarkable achievements in the fire service and community exemplifies outstanding performance. To be considered for the award, nominees must have been a volunteer firefighter for at least 20 years.

“No man is more deserving of this award,” said Joe Guyotte, Chair of the NVFC’s Membership and Awards Committee, as he and Jason Cannon from Scott Safety presented the award to Chief Jernigan during a special awards ceremony at the NVFC spring board meeting on April 5. “Glenn is a fireman’s fireman and a fire chief’s fire chief.”

 “Not many times am I speechless,” Jernigan said upon receiving the award. “I am humbled to receive this award. It goes to all the members of the Faison fire department and all of the firefighters in North Carolina. I am really honored.” Jernigan also thanked his wife of 52 years, Evelyn.

Jernigan joined Faison Fire and Rescue in 1959 and has dedicated his life to the emergency services. He has demonstrated exemplary leadership and vision both for his department as well as the entire fire service of North Carolina.
 
Jernigan has served in many capacities during his 52 years in the volunteer fire service, including firefighter, EMT, officer, chief, and board member. He retired as Chief of Faison Fire and Rescue in 2006 after 36 years, and continues to serve as Safety Officer. He is a member and past president of several local and state fire service organizations, including past president of the North Carolina State Firemen’s Association (NCSFA).
 
A strong advocate for firefighter training, Jernigan was instrumental in promoting and growing the North Carolina Fire College, resulting in thousands of volunteer firefighters receiving training through the College. He also supported the NC Office of State Fire Marshal in the development and enhancement of specialized training for the NC fire service. Jernigan played a vital role in promoting and growing the NCSFA scholarship program, which helps children of firefighters achieve their educational goals.
 
Jernigan established his career in law enforcement, retiring as Sheriff of Duplin County in 2002. He is active in many community organizations, including Little League coach, chair of the boards of local nonprofits, and member of the Duplin Rotary Club and Faison Jaycees, among other groups. Among his numerous awards, Chief Jernigan is a recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award, the highest honor presented by the Governor of North Carolina.

Chief Jernigan and his wife Evelyn have two children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandson.

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