09/16/2026
Congratulations to Firefighter William Palmore, who was named the Doswell Ruritan Club Volunteer Firefighter of the Year.
William Palmore is a 35 year veteran of the Ashland Volunteer Fire Company, beginning his volunteer career with AVFC in January of 1991 at 18 years old. He was quickly promoted to Lieutenant in 1992 and selected as Assistant Chief in 1994. In 1997, Palmore was selected as District Chief, overseeing all operational components of AVFC and leading the company for a year. Palmore continued to serve in a variety of leadership roles over the years, most recently serving as Assistant Chief before AVFC ceased having operational officers. Palmore is a released truck and rescue operator and was named Honorary Chief in 2015. He was named Firefighter of the Year by the company in 1991, 1992, 1998, 2023, and 2025, the only individual in the company's 136 year history to receive this honor more than twice.
Palmore continues to provide regular, weekly staffing on Truck 401 and is considered a wealth of knowledge for both volunteer and career members. His almost encyclopedic knowledge of Ashland's district has no doubt ensured fast response to emergencies across the community. He currently serves as Member at Large for the Ashland Volunteer Fire Company, representing membership on the Board of Directors and Life Members.
Palmore is employed by CSX Transportation and lives in Ashland with his wife and three daughters.
