From the WTF Watch Desk: Virginia Beach Fire Department named Captain Sean K. Millard its 2026 Firefighter of the Year, citing his leadership in marine operations, swift-water response, watercraft training and regional rescue readiness.
Why this deserves the fire service’s attention
Recognition matters most when it identifies repeatable leadership behaviors—technical mastery, instruction, mentoring and sustained readiness—that a department can deliberately build in others.
What Worked?
What Didn’t Work?
What Was Missed?
This report reflects information available on October 15, 2026. Developing items will be updated when official information changes.