Anniston, AL – On Thursday morning, March 26, 2026, acting City Manager Captain Matt Caballero came to Anniston Fire Station 1 to deliver the citation to the C-Shift. Fire Chief Johnnie Phelps addressed the firefighters first. He began by outlining the event that occurred on January 31, 2026, where the Anniston Fire Department was dispatched to the 700 block of Knox Avenue in Anniston, where they located a residential house on fire. Chief Phelps stated, “That’s kind of what to call every firefighter thinks about when they put the uniform on. There are no speeches, no hesitation, just professionals doing what they train to do. Companies arrived, went to work, trusted each other, and because of that, a life was safe. This is who firefighters are. They prepare every day, they take care of each other, and when someone in this community needs help, they answer the call without question. I couldn’t be more proud of this group than the way they represent this department and this city. It’s very important to me that the city, and myself, take this time to recognize you today.” Chief Phelps then introduced City Manager Caballero.
Matt Caballero started by saying, “Chief Phelps said, you guys do a thankless job. That is why we’re here. I know this type of ceremony can feel a little awkward, and I get it, but it is necessary, just as he just said. You do deserve recognition for what you do.” He then went on to read the Citation for Valor and Service to the recipients:
CITY OF ANNISTON
CITY COUNCIL CITATION FOR VALOR AND SERVICEWHEREAS, on January 31st 2026, members of the Anniston Fire Department were dispatched to a residential structure fire with confirmed entrapment, presenting an immediate threat to human life; and
Paid AdvertisementWHEREAS, Engine 2, Engine 1, and 400 arrived promptly on scene within 3 minutes of dispatch, demonstrating swift response and professional readiness; and
WHEREAS, Assistant Chief Arnold (400) assumed command and effectively communicated and coordinated lifesaving efforts under hazardous and rapidly evolving conditions; and
Paid AdvertisingWHEREAS, Engine 1, under the leadership of Lieutenant Cantrell, with Sergeant Dorroh, Firefighter Teem, and Firefighter Hulsey, made entry into the structure and initiated fire attack to control the blaze and improve conditions for rescue operations; and
WHEREAS, Engine 2, led by Captain Walker, with Sergeant Hill and Firefighter Anderson, immediately began search and rescue operations upon arrival; and
WHEREAS, Engine 5, staffed by Lieutenant Kent, Sergeant Owens, and Firefighter Thompson, joined rescue efforts alongside Engine 2, and together their crews successfully located and removed a trapped victim from the structure; and
WHEREAS, Engine 4, consisting of Lieutenant Gauthier, Firefighter Howle, and Firefighter Weiss, served as Rapid Intervention Crew providing critical assistance with fire suppression, contributing to overall scene safety and operational success; and
WHEREAS, the rescue of the trapped victim was directly accomplished through the courageous and decisive actions of Captain Walker, Lieutenant Kent and Firefighter Thompson, whose efforts exemplified exceptional bravery, skill, and dedication to duty;
WHEREAS, the coordinated actions of these officers and firefighters resulted in the preservation of human life and exemplified exceptional courage, professionalism, and teamwork;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Anniston City Council hereby commends and recognizes these members of the Anniston Fire Department for their heroic service and unwavering commitment to protecting the citizens of Anniston.
Mr. Caballero went on to speak to the group by saying, “Saving a life is never a small feat. The reality is, they’re here because you guys decided to do your job and do it swiftly. A three-minute response time was great, and it speaks for the professionalism and courage that the city of Anniston can rely on in their firefighters.” Mr. Caballero concluded by thanking all of the C-Shift members and handed each of them a copy of their citation.
Due to a scheduling conflict, Anniston Mayor Ciara Smith-Rosten was unable to attend but did want to provide a comment to the firefighters who were present. Mayor Smith-Rosten said, “I’m always so proud of our first responders. They are well trained and always put our citizens first. I appreciate them and am glad we can take this opportunity to recognize their service. I am also proud of how strong and dedicated the Anniston Fire Department is and how dedicated they are.”
