ROCKINGHAM — A third-generation firefighter was honored Tuesday evening for his life-saving efforts during a January call.
Kendell Watson, who at the time was a captain with the East Rockingham Volunteer Fire Department, responded to a fire Jan. 22 in Cordova’s district.
East Rockingham and Cordova Fire and Rescue have an automatic mutual aid agreement.
When he arrived on scene, Watson reportedly saw smoke coming from one end and the front door of the mobile home — and heard someone calling out from inside.
When Watson entered the home, he said there was smoke about 3 feet from the floor and he saw flames in the kitchen.
Watson found the victim, who was in a wheelchair and unable to move it past debris on the floor — so the young firefighter picked up the wheelchair and carried the victim to safety.
Both departments recognized Watson’s courage and quick thinking March 5, with the award being presented by ERFD Chief Dennis Smith.
The award reads that it is presented for: “Your fast thinking and swift, professional action on January 22, 2024 leading to the saving of another human life in the line of duty. Thank you going above and beyond serving the citizens of Richmond County, North Carolina.”
“First off, I’d like to say we have an exceptional relationship with East Rockingham Fire Department and we are thankful for the automatic aid we share between the two departments,” Cordova Chief Jeremy Chance told the RO on Thursday.
“I also believe Kendell is a great asset to the East Rockingham Fire Department,” Chance added. “He has shown what we are truly here for, which is the community.”
Chance added that Watson is “a great fireman and has a wonderful toolbox of knowledge and a huge heart for the fire service and serves his community well.”
“His department and his community should be very proud of him,” Chance continued. “Cordova Fire Department is very thankful for him and also proud of his accomplishments and we look forward to continue to work with him.”
Smith also promoted Watson to assistant chief and the young officer was then presented a helmet by his father, Mitchell Watson, who served as chief of the department from 2007-2019.
Watson got his start in the field as a junior firefighter with ERFD at the age of 14. In addition to serving with ERFD, Watson is also with the Aberdeen Fire Department. He has formerly been a firefighter with departments in West End and Horry County, South Carolina.
The young fireman remained humble about his actions, telling the RO: “You don’t think about it … I’m not a hero.”
