VPFF President Kurt Detrick

09/07/2026

Thank a union member! This Labor Day, please remember why it was started...to recognize the contributions of the American worker and the role of trade unions.

Established on June 28, 1894 by Congress, the first Monday in September celebrates the greater labor movement and the effect it has had on elevating the status of working people.

From our 11,000+ International Association of Fire Fighters union members, we hope you have a safe and enjoyable day! And to our firefighters, emergency medical workers and communications officers working this holiday, thank you for your service to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

09/04/2026

This month we celebrate an achievement that should make any local affiliate proud. 100% operational participation. With 42 members and growing as the department grows, we could not be prouder of our members. Our purpose is simple. Advocate for our people ensure fair process is given to all members. Members of L5431 you should be very proud of this achievement!

-President Chris Vess
-Vice President Ben Ullman

08/29/2026

Congratulations Ned on your well earned retirement from the Virginia Beach Fire Department

Brother Ned has served as a long time trustee for the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters and as Sergeant at Arms for our international conventions. First class firefighter and an even better person. Enjoy every minute of it Brother!

08/21/2026

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) unanimously voted to censure — or publicly reprimand — Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D), saying she “turned her back” on the…

08/19/2026

The following companies are riding with reduced staffing:

Engine 1 ChurchHill
Engine 17 Woodland Heights
Engine 16 Ginter/Washington Park

As Union President it is my utmost responsibility to protect the health & safety of my members, a mission that remains number one in my heart. I hate when money plays a factor into decision making, especially when it alters the operational performance, proficiency, and ultimately jeopardizing my members safety, in an already dangerous & demanding profession.

To my Citizens of Richmond, it’s truly a privilege to serve & protect you, as a Richmond native, I served RFD for over 35 years, so I’ve had to endure cost saving measures, reducing staffing is a risk we should not be entertaining. 995 has quietly worked behind the scenes to address & correct what we deem is an unsafe practice. To date, I have gone before the Council’s Safety Committee, contacted all Council members, and now I respectfully ask you to contact the offices of Mayor Avula and CAO Donald, for whom I feel are the driving forces behind this decision.

Keith Andes, President IAFF Local 995
Richmond Professional Firefighters Assoc.

08/15/2026

08/10/2026

I was proud to chair the IAFF Convention Resolutions Committee in Arlington, TX with my labor brother, Vice Chair Jay Colbert.

Over three days of meetings, our committee worked through assigned resolutions, evaluated their impact, and prepared recommendations for the delegates.

These are all good humans doing thoughtful work to strengthen our Union.

08/10/2026

🔥⭐ The 58th starts now in Arlington, Texas!

From Aug. 9–14, delegates from across the United States and Canada come together to set the course for our union's future.

IAFF members can watch proceedings LIVE all week at iaff.org/convention/livestream (login required), starting with the Opening Ceremony at 9 a.m. CT Monday, Aug. 10.

Stay for updates from Arlington throughout the week.

07/15/2026

Congratulations Local 794!! A major step in the right direction in Hampton Roads. Great work by President Adrian Manning all the unions, and city management for working together.

04/10/2026

Honored to have the support of Chesterfield Professional Firefighters Local 2803.

Thank you for your trust and support.