02/13/2026
Welcome to RFD Connections — February 13, 2026
This February, we’re leaning into what heart really means at RFD. As we observe American Heart Month alongside Valentine’s Month, it’s a fitting reminder that the work we do is powered by commitment, compassion, and the people who make it possible—on and off duty.
In this edition, we’re proud to share stories that reflect the heart of our department: achievements worth celebrating, service worth recognizing, and the connections that bind our fire family together.
Happy Valentine’s Day from RFD Connections ❤️
Valentine’s Day in the fire service doesn’t always look like dinner reservations and perfect timing.
Sometimes it’s a shift change at sunrise. Sometimes it’s a missed plan because the tones drop. Sometimes it’s coming home a little tired—but still showing up with love.
Today, we want to recognize the heart behind the badge.
To the spouses, partners, kids, crews, and friends who make this work possible — your support matters more than you know.
Your support is part of this job, even if you don’t wear the uniform.
Whether you’re on duty, just getting off shift, or holding things down at home, we hope your day includes a small reminder that you’re appreciated.
From our fire family to yours — Happy Valentine’s Day. ❤️🚒
Promotions & New First-Class Firefighters 🔥
Raleigh Firefighter Promoted to Major in the National Guard
There’s a lot to celebrate at the “12 House,” and this month we’re proud to recognize one of our own for a major milestone—literally.
In January 2026, William Henderson was promoted to the rank of Major in the National Guard, marking a significant achievement in a career built on service, leadership, and dedication. While many know him for his work with the Raleigh Fire Department, this promotion highlights the impact he continues to make well beyond the firehouse.
William joined Raleigh Fire in March 2014 and has steadily risen through the ranks through hard work and commitment. Today, he serves as a Lieutenant on Engine 12, protecting the residents of Southeast Raleigh while also balancing the responsibilities of military service. His promotion to Major reflects not only his leadership abilities, but his ability to thrive in high-stakes environments—whether on the fireground or in uniform with the National Guard.
Success like this doesn’t happen in isolation. William’s biggest supporters—his wife and children—have been with him every step of the way, and their pride is shared throughout the station. Around the house, the sentiment is unanimous: this achievement is well-earned and long overdue.
Please join us in congratulating Major William Henderson on this incredible accomplishment and thanking him for his continued service to both the City of Raleigh and our nation. We’re proud to serve alongside you. 👏🇺🇸
9 Weeks Until!The Capital Area Firefighters Gala
Through the Flames of Time: Why This Night Matters
Some nights are more than a date on the calendar.
The Capital Area Firefighters Gala is a chance to pause from the pace of the job and come together to honor the tradition, service, and people who define the fire service. It’s a night rooted in shared history, pride, and the connections that carry us forward.
This evening recognizes the legacy built by those before us while supporting the causes and organizations that continue to give back to our fire service community.
It’s a chance to step out of bunker gear, share a meal, raise a glass, and spend time with those who understand what this job asks—and what it gives in return.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available.
Visit our Shop page for info.
We hope you’ll join us for an evening of connection and celebration.
👋Retirements!👏
UPCOMING RETIREMENTS:
👶 TINY TOT ARRIVALS! 🍼
Congratulations Families!
Please join the 5 House in congratulating Lieutenant Aaron Proctor (Engine 5 A) and his family on the birth of their third child. Thomas Boone Proctor was born On February 3, weighing 8 lbs. 5 oz. All the girls and Thomas are doing great. Aaron is settling into life with a newborn at home and all the extra noises that come with welcoming another "precious" addition to the Proctor family.
E21/A congratulates Lt. (soon to be Captain) T. Guffey, wife Kaitlyn, son’s Lawson, Weston, and family on the birth of their beautiful baby girl! We are excited to join them in welcoming their beautiful new addition to the RFD family. Amelia Christine Guffey was born 1/23 at 6:29pm weighing 6lb 10oz and 19 inches long.
DFM John Di Raimondo and wife welcomed their second child, John Lochlan Di Raimondo, on 4:15am February 1st. 6lbs 9oz. John, his wife Danielle, and baby are doing well.
Welcome to the RFD family, babies!
Sports!…..🏒 A Hockey Event on the Horizon
🔨 Keep Those Skills & Trades Coming In!🔌
Skills, Talents, and Trades Directory
We’ve already had some solid submissions come in for the Skills & Trades Directory, and we know there’s so much more experience, talent, and know-how out there across our RFD community.
If you’ve got:
a side hustle
a specialty trade
a creative or technical skill
or that familiar “yeah, I can help with that” ability
…we’d love to include it.
If you’re on the fence or thinking “someone else probably already submitted this,” they probably haven’t. And if people have come to you before because you’re good at what you do — that’s exactly who this is for.
🕊 In Memoriam
Please keep the family of Battalion Chief Christopher Gibbons in your thoughts as they continue to mourn the passing of his mother, Mrs. Jean S. Gibbons.
Jean Gibbons, age 97, mother of Christopher K Gibbons of B-3 /A, peacefully passed away on Feb 4th 2026 surrounded by her loving family. She was incredibly independent and will be forever loved and missed beyond words. Please keep the Gibbons family with your thoughts and prayers.
Mrs. Gibbons celebration of life was held at the Robert Spearing Funeral Home 155 Kinderkamack Rd, Park Ridge NJ 07656 on Feb 9 2026.
🙏 Thank you...
…for being part of the RFD family. We’re grateful for the people and moments that connect us, and we look forward to sharing more along the way. Stay safe, take care, and we’ll see you soon.
💡 Share Your Story!
RFD Connections is your space to celebrate our people, our moments, and the bonds that make this department extraordinary.
If you have photos, event updates, or stories worth sharing, send them our way — we’d love to feature them in a future issue.
📧 Email: contact@rfdconnections.com or keri.warner@raleighnc.gov
