‘An inspiration’: Petersburg names its 2024 Firefighter of the Year

PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- Petersburg named its next Firefighter of the Year on Tuesday, celebrating his "unparalleled dedication" to the city.

On Tuesday, May 13, the Petersburg Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services announced that Captain Jerren Lucas, Sr. is its 2024 Firefighter of the Year.

Lucas, who was born and raised in Petersburg, is described by the city as an "inspiration" -- someone whose "leadership and compassion serve as a unifying force."

“In every generation, there are individuals who leave a mark that becomes part of the City’s foundation,” said chief Wayne Hoover when making the announcement. “For Petersburg, that is Captain Lucas, a man whose roots run as deep as his love for the people he serves.”

Captain Jerren Lucas, Sr., Petersburg's 2024 Firefighter of the Year. (Photo: Petersburg Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services)

Lucas, a husband and father, said his family is his "driving force." That community mindset leads him to mentor both fire recruits and Petersburg youth.

“We want the community to know that we are not just here when your house is on fire,” Lucas said. “We’re here for people year-round."

When it comes to recruits, he is said to be someone who "helps them see their strengths and brings out their potential, not just as firefighters, but as individuals," according to Hoover.

12-year-old boy swept away in floodwaters that overtook Albemarle roadway

He also goes to school events and community gatherings to speak with Petersburg kids, working to ensure they feel valued. Per the city, his outreach includes things like "distributing coats, providing shoes [and] offering words of encouragement and high-fives."

"The Petersburg Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services congratulates Captain Jerren Lucas Sr. on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his outstanding service to Petersburg," the city said.