South Carolina firefighters gather for largest in-state training (1)

June 23, 2026

Over 6,000 South Carolina firefighters gathered in Myrtle Beach last week for the largest in-state training during the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s annual Fire-Rescue Conference.

The flagship event of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association, Fire-Rescue Conference has been a staple in the fire service for 121 years. Nearly 50 courses covering a wide range of topics were instructed over the 4-day training conference.

President Jason Dennis, Clarendon County Fire-Rescue Chief, was sworn in as the 80^th President of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association at the Transfer of Command on Saturday, June 13. Mount Pleasant Fire-Rescue Deputy Chief William (Billy) Barnes was named 4^th Vice President after an uncontested election.

“What an honor it is to stand here tonight… deeply humbled to stand here,” President Dennis said. “While I’m deeply humbled, I’m also honored to stand before you tonight as President of this great Association.”

“As firefighters, we understand the value of commitment, teamwork, and service. Daily, we answer the call to protect our communities, support one another, and uphold the highest standards of our profession. Those same principles will guide me in my leadership as President,” President Dennis added.

During his remarks, President Dennis thanked the membership, Executive Committee, his family, and Clarendon County Fire-Rescue.

“This is a privilege and an awesome responsibility that I don’t take lightly,” President Dennis stated. “Together, we will continue to address the challenges facing the fire service while embracing opportunities to strengthen our profession for future generations.”

Before concluding Fire-Rescue, President Dennis congratulated the 2026 award winners.

Meritorious Action Award recipients:

City of Columbia Fire Department – Christopher Byrd, Campbell Jacobs, Ryan Espling, Zachary Finch, Nicholas Branham, Nicholas Finley, Desiree Colon, Cameron Jones, Blake Cartee, Richard Shell, Cameron Ingram, Taylor Crews, Davis Taylor, Sean Stephens, Alexander Papalazarou, Jackson Rish

Greenwood County Fire Service – Nak Amiri, Sean Wargny

Simpsonville Fire Department – Caleb Carter

Medal of Valor Award recipients:

Central Berkeley Fire and EMS – Matthew Gaskins

GVW Volunteer Fire Department – Evan Lloyd

Firefighter of the Year

Berkeley County Government – Benjamin Waring

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