Hopkinsville officially welcomed its new fire chief Tuesday evening when Steve Futrell was sworn in during a pinning ceremony at the James E. Bruce Convention Center.
Futrell has served on the Hopkinsville Fire Department since 1999 and in multiple capacities, including deputy fire chief and most recently as interim fire chief since the retirement of previous Fire Chief Freddie Montgomery. New Clarksville Fire Chief Montgomery spoke at the ceremony, saying the Futrell is as good as gold, and he can rest easy knowing that the department is in his capable hands.
Fire Chief Futrell says the City of Hopkinsville has been good to not just him and his family, but also shows continual support to the men and women of the fire department. He thanked multiple people for supporting him, including his family.
Speaking directly to the firefighters serving with him, Futrell says he is proud to stand behind them and looks forward to leading them into the future.
He was sworn in by Mayor Carter Hendricks, who says that the interview process—which was open to both internal and external applicants—was extensive, and Chief Futrell continually showed great competence and drive throughout. Family, friends and community members filled the lobby of the convention center to show their support for Hopkinsville’s new fire chief.