FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 25, 2025

Morgantown Fire Dept. Announces 2025 Firefighter & Fire Officer of the Year

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - The Morgantown Fire Department is proud to recognize two dedicated staff members each year for their exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the community. This year, Firefighter First Class Chris DeBerry has been named Firefighter of the Year, and Lieutenant Ashley Jenkins has been honored as Fire Officer of the Year.

Firefighter of the Year: Firefighter First Class (FFC) Chris DeBerry

Since joining the department in 2011, FFC Chris DeBerry has exemplified professionalism, reliability, and an extraordinary work ethic. He approaches every task with diligence and determination, ensuring each assignment is completed with the highest level of quality regardless of the time requirement. His positive attitude and expertise in large vehicle mechanics make him an ideal leader in managing apparatus maintenance. Each year, FFC DeBerry works tirelessly to ensure repairs are handled by the most reliable providers, completed efficiently, and performed at the most reasonable cost.

As a senior firefighter, FFC DeBerry also plays a vital role in developing new recruits, serving as a mentor while remaining constantly aware of the example he sets. His willingness to share his knowledge for the benefit of both the department and individual firefighters underscores his natural leadership. The Morgantown Fire Department expresses its deepest gratitude for FFC DeBerry's continued service and dedication.

Fire Officer of the Year: Lieutenant (Lt.) Ashley Jenkins

Lt. Ashley Jenkins is being honored for his exemplary leadership and tireless commitment throughout his remarkable 27-year career with the Morgantown Fire Department. While many nearing retirement might "slow down," Lt. Jenkins continues to set the standard for excellence. For nearly 85 percent of his career, he has served on the department’s busiest apparatus. After a brief assignment at one of the department’s slower stations, Lt. Jenkins requested to return to the busiest engine company so that a junior lieutenant could gain valuable experience—a decision that reflects his selfless character.

This year alone, he held command of or initiated the first attack at 45 percent of all fires requiring the Morgantown Fire Department’s response. Whether performing station duties or leading an aggressive interior attack at a structure fire, Lt. Jenkins consistently leads by example, a trait deeply respected in the fire service. As incident commander, his rapid decision-making and clear direction were instrumental in preventing further disaster during major incidents, including the Phoenix Bakery fire and the Dille Street 12-unit apartment fire earlier this year. Lt. Jenkins’s contributions are invaluable, and the Morgantown Fire Department is proud to recognize his exceptional service.

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