The Farmville Fire Department is recognizing Sgt. Dan Pempel as its member of the month. According to a press release, Pempel has served with Farmville Fire Department for 14 years.

“Prior to moving to Virginia, Pempel worked for U.S. Airways where he retired with 38 years of service at the LaGuardia Airport,” officials said in the release. “Pempel lived in Valley Stream, New York and Volunteered with the Valley Stream Fire Department in Nassau County.”

The release cited Pempel has served more than 44 years in the fire service.

“Not only has Dan dedicated his life to helping others, but he also served our nation in Vietnam with the U.S. Army,” officials said in the release. “It is a true honor to have him amongst our ranks.”

The release cites that Pempel currently serves as property sergeant with the Farmville Fire Department and also serves with the Randolph District Fire Department. Pempel received certification in Virginia to include Firefighter 1 and 2, Hazmat Operations, EVOV, ICS 100, 200, 700, DPO, Farm Machinery Extrication, Rural Water Supply, NFA Incident Safety Officer, Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings and HTR Vehicle Rescue.

“He is also a graduate of the Nassau County Fire Academy in New York,” officials said. “Dan is a wealth of knowledge and provides years of experience to the Farmville Fire Department.”