HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The Hopkinsville Fire Department recognized three individuals that are retiring after extensive service with the emergency department. Fire Chief Steve Futrell presented during the Oct. 20 Hopkinsville City Council meeting, also announcing several promotions.
“Retirements are tough, I love promotions, but I hate retirements because the fire department is a family,” said Futrell.
Engineer Lucas Stagner had been paramedic/firefighter with HFD since 2006 and officially retired at the beginning of August after 19 years and eight months of service. He was awarded a plaque from Futrell and Hopkinsville Mayor James R. Knight in recognition. Captain Andrew Watts was also acknowledged for his retirement, having served with HFD since 2006 for a total of 20 years and four months.
Battalion Chief Spencer Wood was the final retiree of the evening, having started with HFD in 2001. He was previously recognized during the department’s 9/11 stair climb for his 26 years of service. Nicholas Marlowe was promoted to Battalion Chief during the meeting to fill the position that Wood was leaving behind.
Marlowe had served as captain under Chief Wood before stepping into the role. Futrell said this is a rare occurance, “Less than 5% of firefighters ever make it to the chief rank, and it’s a big deal and we’re proud of him and we love him and we’re excited for him.”
Several other individuals were also promoted during the meeting including Captain Jeff Nunley, Captain Cliff Hoy, Lieutenant Collin Champion and Lieutenant Ethan Champion. The department also promoted their first ever EMS captain positions to Katie Peek, James VanCleave and Melinda Young.
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