After nearly 12 years of service to Bryan County, Chief Freddy Howell of the Bryan County Fire & Emergency Services has announced his retirement. 

The department said Howell has been an integral part of the Bryan County Fire & Emergency Services, leading the department through a period of significant growth and development. Developments under his tenure include the addition of a new fire station and the renovation of existing stations, resulting in a total of 10 stations strategically located across the county. His efforts also secured crucial grants that expanded the department's team of firefighters from 36 to over 100, further enhancing emergency response capabilities.

Howell also prioritized the modernization of medical equipment and the expansion of the department’s fleet; which included doubling the number of ambulances and upgrading critical ambulance equipment in order to better care for patients and improve emergency response efficiency. 

In a press release, the Bryan County Board of Commissioners and staff expressed their gratitude to Howell for his dedicated service and leadership, saying, "his legacy of innovation, resilience, and community commitment will endure as the department continues its mission to protect and serve Bryan County residents.”