I joined RMFD in January of 2022 as a student member. I decided to further my knowledge in the fire service by taking the Fire Fighter 1 class which started in July. I have passed my HAZMAT course and will officially graduate in December of this year. I wanted to serve my community by running with the rescue squad but during Covid the fire department was the best way I could serve. RMFD has given me so much support and encouragement from the guys on the department. My biggest supporter is my father and my greatest role model. The student program is a wonderful thing to be a part of & I am thankful for it. -Ashlynn Haigler
I joined the Rocky Mount Fire Department (RMFD) in the summer of 2018 as a Pump Engineer. One year later, I completed my FF1 training. I have always watched, from afar, the workings of the department and wanted to be a member. After some intense coaxing from Brad Basham (RMFD Assistant Chief) I took the step to apply. I have always enjoyed being a part of a “team” but that all changed when I joined RMFD. The true sense of brotherhood has never been stronger. To fully know that 40+ members are a phone call away when you need something is truly special. Along with the brotherhood, I love serving our local community. There is something special about wearing the Maltese Cross on your shirt that gives you pride in what you do for your community.
Recently, my daughter (Ashlynn Haigler) joined RMFD as a student member. She has always had a servant’s heart but that is even more prominent now. Ashlynn loves Franklin County, her community and being able to serve in this capacity is special. One of my favorite things about her being on the RMFD is when the tones go off, she will yell from upstairs “Don’t leave me, I’m getting ready!”. We have several Father/Son combinations in RMFD and the county but something about a Father/Daughter makes it a little more meaningful. I am so glad that she chose to join and hope that the Fire Service is something that will continue in her future! -Aaron Haigler