WHO: Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department

WHAT: 2009 Career Firefighter of the Year Ceremony

WHEN: 11 a.m., Thursday, August 13, 2009

WHERE: Fairfax County Public Safety Center, Massey Building, A-Level Conference Center

4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia

The ceremony for the 2009 Career Firefighter of the Year will be held in the Massey Building, A-Level Conference Center at 11 a.m., Thursday, August 13, 2009. Captain II William A. Garrett, Fire and Rescue Station 11, A-Shift, is the 2009 Career Firefighter of the Year.

Captain Garrett, a 19-year veteran, has represented the department with distinction on and off duty, and has involved himself in the community by participating in unscheduled and scheduled events. He has been instrumental in hosting the Toys-for-Tots program, winter coat giveaway, and school backpack drives for the last several years. His participation was essential to the overall success of these programs.

He has also participated in the department’s Project S.A.F.E. Program which teaches important fire safety information to third grade students. He also mentors young men at the Gum Springs Community Center, Graham Road Elementary School, and Fort Hunt Elementary School. Captain Garrett has performed to the highest standard of excellence, and epitomizes selfless service across the board. His attitude, dedication, and enthusiasm are second-to-none.

The Firefighter of the Year Award is the department’s highest award, established in 1985 to provide special recognition for outstanding service and dedication in keeping with the highest traditions of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department.

Captain Garrett resides in Centreville, Virginia, with his wife Lauretta, son Joshua, and daughter Whitney.