Pitt County Firefighters’ Association Awards
Awards presented to Firefighter, Fire Officer and Fire Chief of the Year
The Pitt County Firefighters’ Association annual “Ladies Night Dinner” was held Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Eastern Pine Fire-Rescue located at 5473 Eastern Pines Rd, Greenville, N.C. Three awards were presented following the meal.
Pitt County Firefighter of the Year was awarded to Cody Bateman of Simpson Rural Fire Department.
The Pitt County Fire Officer of the Year award was presented to George W. Gay of Farmville Fire Department.
Chief Thomas Wayne Lilley of Bethel Volunteer Fire Department was named the Pitt County Fire Chief of the Year.
The awards are presented annually to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding support and leadership to their department and the community; contributing to the overall good and advancement of fire services in Pitt County for the previous 12 months. The selection committee is made up of individuals not currently in the Pitt County fire service.
“Pitt County Emergency Management joins the Firefighters’ Association in congratulating all award recipients and further thanking all of the dedicated individuals who serve the residents of Pitt County every day,” says Jay Morris, Fire Marshal / Emergency Management Deputy Director.
Emergency Management and the Firefighters’ Association are recruiting members for all rural volunteer fire departments. Volunteer firefighters are community members who defend residences and businesses from structure fire tragedies. Training/education may be completed within one year and is no cost to participants. Highschool students ages 14-17 years old, with parent/guardian permission, are encouraged to submit an interest form for the Junior Firefighter program. Interested individuals should visit www.PittCountyNC.gov/Firefighter or complete an Interest Form.
For more information, contact PCEM at 252-902-3950.