Two Southern Pines Fire Department lieutenants have been promoted to the rank of captain.
Fire Chief Mike Cameron announced the promotions of John Wilson and David Velazquez.
“Captain Wilson has dedicated ten years to the Southern Pines Fire Department and has shown exceptional dedication, professionalism, and leadership during his career,” Cameron said on the department’s Facebook page on July 20.
Wilson holds an associate degree from Sandhills Community College and 37 certifications. He also deployed in response to Hurricane Helene in 2024 and the Poplar Wildland Fire in 2023. He has received multiple awards, including a Meritorious Unit Citation for the response to Tropical Storm Chantal and a Hurst Green Cross.
“Captain Velazquez has dedicated thirteen years to the Southern Pines Fire Department and has demonstrated spectacular hard work, commitment, and leadership throughout his career,” said Cameron.
Velazquez’s educational background includes 32 certifications. He also deployed in response to Hurricane Helene in 2024. He has received multiple awards, including a SAR Life Saving Medal and a Hurst Green Cross.
Additionally, qualified prospective captains went through a rigorous assessment process involving a tactical live-burn scenario, an evaluation of their ability to counsel supervised personnel, a writing proficiency scenario involving construction of a simulated memorandum to Human Resources, and an evaluation of overall leadership.
Feature photo: John Wilson (left) and David Velazquez—contributed photos.
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