FIREFIGHTER FRIDAY: The Heart Behind the Helmet Recognizes Derrick Pry

This week, we're proud to feature another dedicated leader and long-time member of Station 80:

??‍?? Derrick Pry – Chief Engineer

• ?? Originally from Coatesville, Pennsylvania; now residing in Long Neck

• ? 26 years with Station 80

?? Why he joined:

“My father was a firefighter before we relocated.”

??‍?? Inspired by:

Derrick's father, whose service in the fire department helped spark his own connection to the fire service.

?? What he enjoys most:

“Meeting people from different areas.”

?? What people might not realize:

“Constant training and fundraising.”

?? Most memorable call:

June 7, 2009 — a farmhouse fire on Long Neck. This call holds a special place in Derrick's memory because it was his youngest brother's first fire alongside him. Responding together made an already memorable call even more meaningful.

?? Outside the firehouse:

Derrick drives a tractor-trailer locally, hauling equipment.

?? Off-duty:

He enjoys spending time with friends and family, getting out on the boat, and photography.

?? Favorite local spot:

Paradise Grill

?? Favorite sports team:

Philadelphia Eagles

?? Fun Facts:

• First job: Landscaping

• Favorite music: Country

?? Why it matters:

“Helping those in the community who are having the worst day of their life.”

?? Why volunteer?

“The personal reward of assisting someone in your community.”

?? His advice:

“Do it. Even if you do not want to be active on apparatus, there are other ways you can help around the stations.”

?? Favorite community event:

Fire prevention activities—an opportunity to interact with the community and help educate others about fire safety.

Derrick has been a mainstay in the fabric of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company for more than 26 years. During that time, he has served as both Engineer and Chief Engineer, helping keep our apparatus in stellar operating condition and ready to respond when our community needs us.

His dedication and skill on emergency scenes have also been recognized through two Hurst Jaws of Life – Green Cross Awards for life-saving extrication procedures at vehicle accidents.

Derrick's service to the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company has been unwavering, with countless hours dedicated to training, maintaining equipment, and remaining ready to answer the call. His commitment is a perfect example of the dedication it takes to keep Station 80 ready to serve.

?? Thank you, Derrick, for 26 years of dedication, service, and commitment to Station 80 and our community!  Congratulations on the recent Life Membership being awarded to you for your 26 years of service to the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company.