FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The new City of Fayetteville Fire Chief had his badge officially pinned April 2 at a Fire Chief Pinning and Transfer of Command ceremony.
The ceremony was held at 6:30 p.m. at the Fayetteville City Hall. Those in attendance were Retired Fayetteville Fire Chief Mike Hill, Mayor Mitch Colvin, Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen, Council members Deno Hondros and Mario Benavente, as well as City Manager Doug Hewett.
Mayor Colvin swore in Chief Dove and the official Fire Chief Badge was pinned on by his son.
The Transfer of Command ceremony carries on a tradition that goes back centuries, like the Fayetteville Fire Department itself which was first chartered in 1791.
Chief Kevin Dove was appointed to his position on March 4, 2024, capping a long career with the Fayetteville Fire Department that began in October 1999 when he joined the department as a fire fighter. He was joined by family, friends, and professional colleagues for the occasion.
“I started my career as a fire fighter nearly 25 years ago,” said Dove. “I am living proof that if you work hard, stay the course, and keep your faith, you can one day wear the badge of a fire chief. For all those graduating high school and college, please consider public service. It is one of the most noble paths you can take,” Dove added.
Fire prevention and Fire Fighter recruitment and retention are among the Chief’s priorities.
“There are several disasters we see every day that could have been prevented,” said Dove. “Fire prevention awareness is one of my top priorities and an effort I will continue to push throughout our community.”
Dove, who was born and raised in Fayetteville, holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, Fire and Rescue Leadership from Waldorf University, and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Service Management from Fayetteville State University.
###
