Eastern Division International Association of Fire Chiefs

10/11/2026

The Eastern Division Board convened in Atlantic City to prepare for the 2027 budget. Throughout 2027, the Board will visit several key cities across the Division to honor our rich history, celebrate our legacy, and pay tribute to those who came before us and paved the way for future generations.

A special thank-you to Chief Evans of the Atlantic City Fire Department (ACFD) for the warm hospitality and gracious welcome. Your support is greatly appreciated!

As we prepare to celebrate this historic milestone, we remain committed to preserving our traditions, honoring our past, and building a strong future for the next generation.

09/11/2026

President Scott Little spent the day in New York City alongside fellow first responders and key industry partners, highlighting the importance of collaboration, innovation, and strong partnerships in supporting those who serve our communities.

It was a great opportunity to connect with leaders like AT&T FirstNet President Scott Agnew and RapidSOS President Ed Parkinson and discuss how technology and collaboration can help first responders do their jobs more safely and effectively.

Proud to stand alongside the people and partners working every day to strengthen emergency response and better serve our communities. 🇺🇸🚨

09/11/2026

Today, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, the Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (EDIAFC) pauses in solemn remembrance.
​Twenty-five years ago, our nation experienced an unprecedented tragedy, and the fire service faced its darkest hour. Among the 2,977 innocent lives lost that day were 343 of our brothers—FDNY firefighters who courageously rushed into harm’s way to save others—along with 60 law enforcement officers and 8 EMTs and paramedics.

​Across Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia, our Eastern Division family felt this sacrifice deeply and personally. Many of our own members responded, provided mutual aid, and stood shoulder-to-shoulder in the painful days and weeks that followed.

​Quarter of a century later, our solemn vow remains unchanged: Never Forget. ​We honor the memory of the fallen, extend our enduring support to their families, and reaffirm our duty to those who continue to suffer or lose their lives to 9/11-related illnesses. Their courage, selflessness, and devotion to duty define the noble traditions of the fire and emergency services.

​To all fire chiefs, officers, firefighters, and first responders across our region: may we lead with the same dedication, strength, and unity demonstrated on September 11, 2001.

08/22/2026

Congratulations to IAFC’s 150th President!

The Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (EDIAFC) extends our warmest congratulations to Chief Steven Locke (South Burlington Fire Department, VT) on being officially installed as the 150th President and Board Chair of the IAFC!

Chief Locke was sworn in during Fire-Rescue International in Kansas City, MO. We also want to congratulate First Vice President Chief Ernest Malone (Indianapolis, IN), Second Vice President Chief Mike Snider (Lee's Summit, MO), and extend our gratitude to Immediate Past President Chief Trisha Wolford (Anne Arundel County, MD) for her outstanding leadership.

We look forward to working under Chief Locke's steady leadership as the IAFC continues "igniting global leaders for a safer tomorrow" and serving fire and emergency services personnel across our region and worldwide.
Join us in wishing Chief Locke and the new executive leadership team a successful year ahead!

📄 Read the full IAFC press release here: https://www.iafc.org/about-iafc/press-releases/press-release/chief-steven-locke-installed-as-150th-president-of-the-international-association-of-fire-chiefs

Kansas City, MO – The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) proudly welcomed its 150th President on Friday, August 14, 2026, during the annual Fire-Rescue International Conference.

08/13/2026

Eastern Division this evening at FRI 2026, proudly hosted with our corporate partner, AT&T FirstNet, a special highlight of the evening was the recognition of our Past Presidents and our members who hit their remarkable years of dedicated service to the IAFC:

• Chief Larry Wood — 54 years
• Chief Bill Jenaway — 47 years
• Chief Steve Flegal — 45 years
• Chief William Walton, Jr. — 45 years
• Chief Joe Fahd — 45 years

Thank you to these outstanding leaders for your dedication, commitment, and many years of service to the Eastern Division and the IAFC. Your leadership and contributions have made a lasting impact on our organization and the fire service.

Congratulations, and thank you for your continued service! 🇺🇸🚒

07/29/2026

📣 Eastern Division IAFC Members — Get Involved!

Great news! The Eastern Division IAFC Board of Directors' monthly meetings are now open to all active members of the association. This exciting opportunity aligns with the membership recommendations outlined in the 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, giving members greater access, transparency, and engagement.

By registering, you'll receive:
✅ The Zoom meeting link
✅ Important updates from the Eastern Division Board of Directors
✅ Opportunities to stay informed and have your voice heard

Don't miss your chance to be part of the conversation and help shape the future of our association.

👉 Register today at www.ediafc.com and take an active role in the Eastern Division IAFC!

07/18/2026

Come see this is new Pierce Aerial Tower in person at the 100th anniversary of the Eastern Division! May 5-7, 2027 in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware!

🚨 Featured Delivery! 🚨

Highlighting this new Pierce Enforcer Ascendant 100’ Heavy-Duty Aerial Tower, recently delivered to Rehoboth Beach Fire Company in Delaware! Tower 86 helps provide protection to about 26 square miles, as well as providing mutual aid to neighboring communities.

Features include:
🔷 44' 4.5" OAL / 11' 4" OAH
🔷 70" Cab
🔷 605 HP Cummins X15 Engine
🔷 2000 GPM Waterous Midship Pump
🔷 300 Gallon Water Tank
🔷 Allison 6th Gen, 4000 EVS P Transmission
🔷 TAK-4 Independent Front/Rear Suspension
🔷 Command Zone Electrical System
🔷 Side Roll and Frontal Impact Protection
🔷 HiViz Scene Lights
🔷 Whelen Warning Lights

Thank you for your continued business and partnership!
Brian Bashista - Senior Vice President

07/16/2026

As we reflect on the success of the 99th Annual Eastern Division IAFC Leadership Conference in April, we recognize that this achievement would not have been possible without the tremendous support of our title sponsor, BluSky. Their partnership helped make the event memorable, including the opportunity to welcome 1983 World Series MVP and Baltimore Orioles legend Rick Dempsey as a featured guest.

Mark your calendars for May 5-7, 2027, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware to celebrate 100 years!

07/08/2026

Upcoming trainings being sponsored by the EDIAFC!

07/07/2026

EDIAFC hopes to see a strong showing of our living Past Presidents as we celebrate our 100th Anniversary on May 5–7, 2027, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Your presence would make this historic milestone even more meaningful as we honor a century of leadership, service, and fellowship. We look forward to celebrating this special occasion with you.