04/24/2026
RFD Connections — April 2026 | Vol. 2
Serving the Raleigh Fire Family
This edition of RFD Connections comes with a mix of moments—some that we celebrate, and some that remind us just how much this job and this family mean to all of us. In times like these, it’s important that we stay connected, not just through the highlights, but through the hard days too. Before we move into the stories and updates from across the department, we want to take a moment to acknowledge where many of us are right now.
Supporting One Another 🫂
This week has been a heavy one for our fire family.
The loss of Senior Firefighter Joshua Lull has been felt across the entire department—on shift, at home, and everywhere in between. There are no perfect words for moments like this, but what we do have is each other.
RFD has always been more than a department. It’s a family. And right now, that matters more than ever. Check in on your people. Sit a little longer. Send the text. Make the call. Look out for the ones who might not say anything but could really use it.
If you’re struggling, please don’t carry it alone. There is strength in reaching out—whether that’s to a friend, a coworker, a supervisor, or one of the resources available to you. Taking care of yourself is not a weakness—it’s part of how we take care of each other.
Support resources are available for all members and their families, and everything is confidential. You can also find this information anytime on the RFD Connections Health & Wellness Resources page.
Staff Psychologist, Dr. Crohan – (919) 604-6745
Chaplaincy Division
Chaplain Neal – (919) 353-3839
John Nickerson – (352) 514-6062
Hannah Canterbury – (919) 333-6843
ComPsych – (833) 812-5180
Responder Assistance Initiative – (866) 731-6901 This is a service for NC Department of Public Safety personnel and our North Carolina public safety agency partners including Law Enforcement, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Management, Telecommunicator/Dispatch or any staff within the Department of Public Safety. If you are a public safety responder, please call the RAI helpline.
Leaders and officers—your presence matters right now. Staying connected with your crews, creating space for conversation, and simply being there goes a long way.
In the days ahead, we’ll continue to lean on one another, just like we always do.
Take care of yourselves. Take care of each other.
Honoring Senior Firefighter Joshua M. Lull 🕊️
Senior Firefighter Joshua M. Lull
As we continue to process the loss of Senior Firefighter Joshua M. Lull, we want to ensure our fire family has the information needed to come together in support and remembrance.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Summit Church – Blue Ridge Campus.
The family will receive visitors immediately following the service at the church.
We encourage those who are able to attend and show support for Joshua’s family, friends, and brothers and sisters across the department.
Please continue to keep his loved ones—and one another—in your thoughts in the days ahead.
His obituary can be read here .
Register for Mental Health Workshop on May 6
Join fellow City of Raleigh employees for an inspiring and restorative afternoon focused on prioritizing mental health, building resilience, and creating community.
The conference will be May 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Marsh Creek Community Center, 3050 N. New Hope Road.
This year’s theme, "In Every Story, There is Strength," celebrates the power of shared experiences and the courage of prioritizing mental well-being. The workshop will feature a panel discussion with local voices in mental health advocacy, breakout sessions with mental health professionals, and creative self-expression to help you reflect, release, and recharge.
The Department of Economic and Social Advancement is pleased to announce that the annual mental health workshop is now a qualifying wellness event. Register now!
LODD Wreath Laying Ceremony
Honoring Our Fallen –
Firefighter Paul A. “Pallie” Mimms
On April 20, members of the Raleigh Fire Department gathered at Keeter Training Center to honor Firefighter Paul A. “Pallie” Mimms during a Line of Duty Death (LODD) memorial ceremony.
As part of our ongoing commitment to remember those we’ve lost, these ceremonies are held on or around the anniversary of each firefighter’s passing—ensuring their service and sacrifice are never forgotten.
The ceremony included a wreath laying, bell ceremony, and remarks in remembrance of Firefighter Mimms. Department members and retirees came together in a shared moment of reflection, honoring his life, his service, and his place in the history of this department.
Firefighter Mimms died on April 20, 1965, after suffering an apparent heart attack while operating a pumper at a commercial structure fire. He collapsed at the pump panel and was later pronounced at Rex Hospital.
We remember. We honor. We carry them with us.
📆 Upcoming Events:
2026 Spring Promotional Ceremony: Wednesday June 3, 2026 at City Council Chambers at 1pm.
Academy 56 Graduation: Friday May 22, 2026 at Providence Church at 11am.
✨ Capital Area Firefighters Gala – A Night to Remember
What a night.
The 2026 Capital Area Firefighters Gala is officially in the books, and more than anything—we’re walking away grateful. Grateful for the turnout, the support, and the chance to bring together so many from across our fire family and public safety partners under one roof.
Like any big event, there were a few behind-the-scenes curveballs (we’ll just say seating charts tried to keep things interesting), but once the evening got rolling, it turned into exactly what it was meant to be—a night of connection, recognition, and celebration.
From the shared stories and laughter to the generosity shown throughout the evening, the support for our mission was felt in every corner of the room. Our sponsors, donors, and attendees made this event possible, and we can’t thank you enough for showing up the way you did.
We’re especially proud that a portion of the proceeds from this event will support the Raleigh Fire Museum and the Caisson Project—helping preserve our history while honoring those who came before us.
We’ve also sent out a post-event survey to attendees and would truly appreciate the feedback. The survey will remain open through Thursday, April 30, and once it closes, we’ll be reviewing all of it—the good, the bad, and everything in between—to help make the next event even better.
📸 Take a scroll through the gallery below to relive some of the night’s best moments—and if you attended, don’t forget to use the link sent via email to upload your own photos. We’ll be collecting submissions through April 30, so there’s still time to add yours!
To everyone who attended, supported, donated, volunteered, or helped behind the scenes—thank you. Truly.
Raleigh Fire Sports News
Track Meet Up!
May 19, 2026-Buffaloe Rd Park
Contact Andre Somme (919-637-8704) before May 19 to join!
Carolina Brotherhood Ride - June 21 - 27
T-SHIRT PRE-SALE IS LIVE!
The 2026 Honoree T-Shirts are officially available in the shop! Presale runs now through June 15. Orders will begin shipping around June 22
https://carolinabrotherhoodride.org/shop/
The Carolina Brotherhood is a 501c3 charitable organization composed solely of emergency responders, and their families, from across North and South Carolina. Founded in 2010 by two Charlotte (NC) firefighters, it has grown to include over 100 emergency responders who have participated over the last decade. Their mission is to provide financial and emotional support to the families of emergency responders who become sick, injured, or killed in the line of duty.
They accomplish their mission by cycling across North and South Carolina, annually varying their route in order to meet the families and friends of our fallen heroes. This time with families and friends allows them to learn about their loved one, hear their stories, and get to know the fallen heroes on a personal level.
🏋🏽♀️First Annual Piedmont Classic-May 9
💪 On the Platform – Firefighter Jenny Jaskolka
Firefighter Jenny Jaskolka (Station 3/A) is gearing up to compete in the First Annual Piedmont Classic on Saturday, May 9 in China Grove, NC—and we’re excited to cheer her on.
This will be Jenny’s first competition in the Novice Lightweight Women’s Division, marking a big step as she takes her training to the platform. And if that’s not enough—this will also be her first time pulling a fire truck in competition. No pressure, right?
Jenny has been putting in the work, and it shows. It takes a lot to step into something new like this, and even more to do it in front of a crowd. We’re proud to have her representing RFD and can’t wait to see what she does.
Spectators are welcome, and more details on parking, vendors, and sponsors will be shared as the event gets closer. If you’re in the area, come out and support.
If you have updates, photos, or additional information about Jenny’s competition, send them our way—we’d love to share and continue supporting her journey.
🔗 More info: https://ironpodium.com/browse/ev/piedmont-classic
🏃🏽♀️➡️Firefighter Fitness Competition🏋🏽
Firefighter Fitness Competition
Registration is now open for Fittest 2 Serve, a firefighter vs. fighter fitness competition hosted by Apex Fire Department.
📅 Saturday, October 17
📍 Apex, NC
Departments of all fitness levels are encouraged to participate.
Event details and registration information:
https://fittest2serve.my.canva.site/
Consider forming a team to represent Raleigh Fire.
🚒 New Fire Station 3 Opens Its Doors!
Big news for Southeast Raleigh—Fire Station 3 officially opens its new home on Monday, April 27, at 936 Rock Quarry Road.
This isn’t just a move down the road (about 1.7 miles from the current South East Street location)—it’s a major step forward. The new 11,105-square-foot station is a modern, thoughtfully designed space built to better serve both our firefighters and the community.
Inside, you’ll find:
A fully staffed engine company with 12 firefighters
A private patient evaluation room
A dedicated decontamination room to help reduce exposure risks
Updated living quarters and an on-site fitness area
Electric charging capabilities for future-ready apparatus
And yes—this station is paving the way for the future. Station 3 is expected to house Raleigh’s first electric fire engine once it’s added to the fleet.
Fire Chief Herbert Griffin summed it up perfectly—this new station represents not just a building, but a stronger, more responsive force for the community we serve every day.
Image courtesy of Mike Legeros
🍴RPFFA Hosts Annual Retiree Luncheon May 1
Mark your calendars and come spend some time with your fire family.
The Raleigh Professional Fire Fighters Association is proud to host the annual Raleigh Fire Department Retiree Luncheon on Friday, May 1 at Station 12. This is always a great opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and catch up with familiar faces—whether it’s been a few months or a few years.
The RPFFA Cook Team is excited to bring this event back once again and looks forward to welcoming our retired members for an afternoon of good food, conversation, and camaraderie.
Lunch will be served at noon—just bring yourself and your stories.
📅 May 1, 2026
📍 Raleigh Fire Station 12
Upcoming Retirements:
We hope you’ll join us to celebrate their accomplishments!
🔗 Retiree Resource Spotlight: RGEA
We recently had a retiree reach out to help spread the word about a valuable resource that many may not be aware of—the Retired Government Employees Association (RGEA). This organization is dedicated to supporting retired government employees by providing access to helpful benefits, resources, and ongoing connection. One of the biggest highlights is supplemental insurance options, including dental and other coverage that can be especially valuable in retirement. RGEA also serves as an advocate for retirees and a way to stay informed and engaged. If you’re retired—or getting close—it’s definitely worth taking a few minutes to check out what’s available to you. Find out more on their website .
The Shirt Off Our Back…For Our Retirees
RFD-branded (and non-duty) apparel remains available for purchase through the retiree store:
🔗 https://raleighfiredepartment.itemorder.com/shop/category/416975/
Quick Notes:
Mix of cotton and polyester options
True-to-size fits (based on feedback)
Some youth sizes available
Select station-specific items (Stations 12, 14, 21)
Ladies-cut options, hats, and drinkware available
Orders ship directly to you
For general questions contact Battalion Chief David Penny
📧 david.penny@raleighnc.gov 📱 919-369-9845
🔥 Planning for What’s Next:
Pre-Retirement Conference for RFD Members – April 29 👩🚒
At some point, every helmet gets hung up for the last time.Whether retirement is years down the road or starting to feel real, planning ahead makes all the difference—financially and mentally. The City of Raleigh Human Resources Department is offering in-person Pre-Retirement Conference, including a session dedicated to fire personnel. These sessions are designed to walk you through the process step by step so you can move confidently into your next chapter.
🗓️ Fire Session Details
Registration is required, and attendance qualifies as a wellness activity credit toward your Annual Wellness Assessment.
⚠️ Only about 11 spots remain—if you’re interested, don’t wait to sign up.
📅April 29, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
📍Pullen Community Center: 408 Ashe Avenue, Raleigh
If you have questions, contact Human Resources at 919-996-3315 or HRSupport@raleighnc.gov. If retirement is even remotely on your radar, this is a smart day to invest in yourself.
🔨 Skills & Trades - Get Known!🔌
📩 Want to be listed?
💡Have an update, retirement, event, or team news to share?
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
🙏 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 of each other, and we’ll see you in the next edition of RFD Connections.
