| The Crisfield Volunteer Fire Department gathered on Saturday, January 31, 2026, for its 82nd Annual Banquet, an evening dedicated to recognizing service, leadership, fellowship, and the continued commitment of the department’s members to the Crisfield community.
The annual event brought together department members, families, guests, and supporters for a night of reflection and appreciation. The evening began with a social hour at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. and dancing at 9:00 p.m.
The banquet provided an opportunity to recognize the department’s administrative and fire officers, whose leadership helps guide the organization throughout the year. Administrative officers for the department include President Keith Ward, Vice President Josh Hinman, Secretary Erik Emely, Assistant Secretary Randy Laird IV, Treasurer Charles Cavanaugh, Trustees Ryan Evans, Ronnie Hinman, Chuck Nelson, Doug Curtis Jr., and Steven Hunt, Chaplain Randy Laird IV, LOSAP Chairman Billy Drewer, and Fire Recorder Danny Tyler.
The department’s fire officers include Fire Chief Frankie Pruitt, Deputy Fire Chief Bob Bradshaw Jr., 1st Assistant Fire Chief Charles Cavanaugh, 2nd Assistant Fire Chief Randy Laird III, 3rd Assistant Fire Chief Jay Paro, Captains Corey Holland, Woody Lee, and Doug Curtis Jr., Lieutenants Josh Hinman, Ryan Evans, and Erik Emely, Chief Engineer Chuck Nelson, and Assistant Chief Engineer Bill Reynolds.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of members for their years of service to the department and the community. Ray Joyner and Troy Whidbee were honored for 10 years of service, while Doug Curtis Jr. was recognized for 15 years of service.
The department also recognized two members for an extraordinary milestone of 50 years of service: Deputy Fire Chief Bob Bradshaw Jr. and Past Assistant Fire Chief Randy Holland. Their decades of dedication represent a lifetime of commitment to emergency service, volunteerism, and the protection of Crisfield and the surrounding area.
“An annual banquet is more than a celebration,” the department said. “It is a time to recognize the members and families who make this organization possible. Every call answered, every training completed, and every hour volunteered reflects a commitment to serving our neighbors.”
The Crisfield Volunteer Fire Department continues to rely on the dedication of its volunteers, the support of their families, and the encouragement of the community. The department extends its appreciation to all members, past and present, whose service has helped shape 82 years of tradition, response, and public safety in Crisfield.
Community members are encouraged to continue supporting their local volunteer fire department and to follow the Crisfield Volunteer Fire Department for updates, safety information, and opportunities to get involved. |
