09/25/2026
RFD Connections — Sep 2026 |Vol. 3
As September winds down, there’s plenty to celebrate across Raleigh Fire. Since our last edition, Academy 57 graduated, Big Red joined the RFD Connections family, and we recognized this month’s Hearts on Duty spotlight. The Raleigh Fire Foundation is finding new ways to connect with our community, and the weeks ahead bring plenty of chances to show up for one another—on the field, at local events, and beyond. Here’s what’s happening around RFD.
Suicide Awareness Month: Keep Checking In
As September comes to a close, the reminder remains: you don’t have to carry a difficult season alone. The people who show up for others every day deserve support, too.
Check in with a coworker. Make time to listen. And if you’re the one struggling, reach out to someone you trust. You can also call or text 988 for immediate support, or connect with NC First Responder Peer Support to talk with someone who understands the work. 988lifeline.org
Rocky Mount Battle of the Badges Recap
Raleigh Fire brought its game to Rocky Mount on September 12 for the Battle of the Badges basketball tournament. Our team made it to the final, where Central Prison came out on top. We didn’t bring the trophy home this time, but it was a great day of basketball and camaraderie.
Thanks to everyone who played, cheered, and supported the teams. See the photos from the day: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD4WPZ
Raleigh Fire Foundation Updates
We have a few chances to connect with you in the coming weeks!
First Responder Mass | Sunday, September 27
Foundation board members plan to attend the 10:30 a.m. Mass at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral honoring first responders. We hope to see you there.
Fit4Life Raleigh | Wednesday, September 30
We plan to stop by Fit4Life Raleigh’s Member Party from 3–5 p.m. at 9101 Leesville Road. If you’re there, come say hello!
Crooked Hammock | Wednesday, Oct. 14
Join us from 4–8 p.m. for Crooked Hammock’s Hammock Takeover. The Foundation will have a table at the event, and 15% of event proceeds will support the Raleigh Fire Foundation.
More info to come!
Blanket orders close October 14
Our RFD and Raleigh Fire Foundation blankets are available for preorder for $55 each at raleighfirefoundation.org/shop. Orders close at midnight on October 14. Orders should arrive around Thanksgiving and pickup will be available at KTC, with delivery to fire stations.
RFD Line of Duty Death Memorial Coins are now available for purchase at KTC.
Coins are $20 each, with proceeds supporting LODD remembrance efforts and the Raleigh Fire Foundation.
Quantities are limited.
Raleigh Fire vs. Raleigh Police: The Rematch
Raleigh Police asked for another shot after the last tournament, so we’re meeting them on the softball field for a rematch!
Come cheer on Raleigh Fire tomorrow, Saturday, September 26, at 9 a.m. at Millbrook Exchange Park.
Let’s bring the crowd and have some fun!
Battle of the Badges Jiu-Jitsu
Firefighters and law enforcement officers will meet on the mats for a Brazilian jiu-jitsu showdown on Saturday, October 3, at Barwell Road Community Center. Doors open at 10 a.m., with the first match at 11 a.m. Proceeds benefit the 200 Club of Wake County and the families of fallen first responders.
The 2nd Annual Ken Hopkins Classic
Honors the life and legacy of Raleigh Police Sgt. Ken Hopkins. Join the community on Saturday, October 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Barwell Road Community Center for basketball, contests, entertainment, and a special appearance by former WNBA player Ty Young. The event is free and open to everyone.
AE Finley Corporate Cup Challenge
We’re checking interest in forming an RFD team for the Finley Cup Challenge—an Olympic-style adult field day and team-building event benefiting the A.E. Finley YMCA’s Annual Campaign.
Saturday, October 17, 2026
9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m.
A.E. Finley YMCA
9216 Baileywick Road, Raleigh
We’re seeking 8–14 participants, ages 18 and older. If you’re interested in joining the team, please contact Lt. Andre Somme 919-637-8704
Battle of the Badges Flag Football
The Raleigh Fire team is gearing up for the Battle of the Badges Flag Football Tournament on Saturday, November 7, at Buffaloe Road Athletic Park. Interested in playing? Contact Andre Somme at 919-637-8704.
Capital City Battle of the Badges Softball
The Raleigh Fire Department is hosting a one-day softball tournament for public safety teams on Saturday, November 21, at Millbrook Exchange Park. Registration closes October 30, with spots reserved for the first 10 teams to pay a deposit. Scan the flyer’s QR code to register.
Join the Raleigh Fire Department Honor Guard
The Raleigh Fire Department Honor Guard
is looking for dedicated members who are willing to serve our department in one of its most respected traditions.
Whether standing watch at a funeral, welcoming our newest recruits, or representing the department at ceremonial events, the Honor Guard serves as a visible symbol of our professionalism, pride, and respect for those who have served before us and those who continue to serve today.
If you are interested in becoming a member or would like to learn more about the expectations and commitment involved, please speak with any Honor Guard member or email Lt. James Jones at james.jones@raleighnc.gov
🔨 Skills & Trades - Get Your Business 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.
