I would like to take this opportunity to thank each member of the association that attended the 64^th Annual Convention.  We had over 360 registered and this number continues to grow.  I would also like to personally thank each of the vendors that attended and supported the convention.  We rely on each of you in helping the association to grow with your products and service.

I am going to make it a goal to add additional training sponsored by the association.  I believe the training at the convention, was among the best to date.    I will do everything I can to show the rest of the state the strength of the Southwest Association.  I would ask that if you have any ideas for training to feel free to contact me.

Numbers is strength, the more our association continues to grow the stronger we become, the stronger we become the louder our voices are, and we need to be heard from Bristol to Virginia Beach and make Richmond hold their ears.

Congratulations to Dublin Fire Department and the late Joey Calfee for receiving the Danny Yopp and Monroe Kingrea Sportsmanship Award.  We voted in two new Life Members and these two gentlemen are very deserving of this honor.  Congratulations to Frank Wright of Christiansburg and Jim Fletcher of Damascus Fire Department.  I would also like to congratulate David Akers on receiving the “Above and Beyond Award,” this was very deserving.  “Thank you” to all of the officers that serve the association and to each member that serves on committees.  Last of all, I would like to also say, “Thank You” to Jen Redd our newest Past-President for an excellent year and a wonderful convention. 

I look forward to serving the association as your President and working closely with all of the officers and committees.   Feel free to contact me anytime.

Jeremy

Jeremy Williams

President

Southwest Virginia Firefighter’s Association

Jewilli6@vt.edu