Stanley Fire Department NC

The Stanley Fire Department is proud to recognize Firefighter/EMT Nancy Kimmel for her service and dedication to the Town of Stanley. Since joining the department in November 2023, Nancy has served the community with compassion, professionalism, and a genuine passion for helping others during their time of need.

As both a firefighter and EMT, Nancy plays an important role in responding to emergencies and supporting the citizens of Stanley each day. Her positive attitude, caring spirit, and commitment to public service are evident in every interaction she has with the community and her fellow firefighters.

When she’s not serving others, Nancy enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, who remain one of the greatest joys in her life. She is also proud to serve alongside family, as the mother of Stanley Fire Chief Gary Hilton. The Stanley Fire Department is thankful for Nancy’s dedication and the heart she brings to the job every day.

Firefighters in Stanley reunited with a very special little guy.

One year ago, our crews responded to a call that turned into something unforgettable. They helped deliver Jackson Silver at home. Recently, they had the chance to see him again as he celebrated his first birthday surrounded by family.

His mother says the firefighters who helped bring Jackson into the world have become like family. It is easy to see why.

To mark the occasion, a Stanley fire truck made a special appearance at the party, giving Jackson a visit from the same team who was there on day one.

Moments like this are a reminder of what this job is really about. Showing up when it matters most and building connections that last well beyond the call.

Happy first birthday, Jackson.

FIREFIGHTER PROFILE | ELIZABETH CABLE

Behind every call is someone who made the decision to serve.
Firefighter Elizabeth Cable started her fire service career in 2019 and joined the Stanley Fire Department at the beginning of this year.

For Elizabeth, the job is about showing up and giving back. She enjoys serving because it gives her the chance to help people and be there for the community when it matters most

She chose this profession for a reason. It is hands on, it requires commitment, and it offers a clear path built on training and purpose. More than anything, it is work that feels meaningful.

That mindset lines up with what she values about Stanley. The sense of community is something she is proud to be part of.

Outside of the job, Elizabeth enjoys riding dirt bikes and four wheelers, taking trips with friends, and spending time with family.

We are grateful to have Elizabeth as part of the Stanley Fire Department, and she is one of many who continue to show up and serve the community.

FIREFIGHTER PROFILE | JEREMY LINKER

Behind every call is someone who made the decision to serve.

Firefighter and EMT Jeremy Linker brings nearly two decades of experience to the Stanley Fire Department. He started his fire service career in 2007 and joined the Stanley team just two months ago.

For Jeremy, the job comes down to one thing. Giving back. He chose this profession to help others, serve his community, and play a role in keeping people safe when it matters most.

That mindset fits right in here. Jeremy says what he values most about Stanley is the small town feel. A place where people still look out for each other.

Outside of the job, his time is centered around his family. He enjoys being there for his three children, whether that's school plays, sporting events, or time together outdoors. When he gets the chance, you will also find him fishing or spending time around baseball, hockey, or paintball.

Jeremy holds certifications as a North Carolina Firefighter and EMT, along with Driver Operator, Fire Officer II, and Fire Instructor I.

We are grateful to have Jeremy as part of the Stanley Fire Department, and he is one of many who continue to show up and serve the community.

When you call 911, the first person you hear isn’t on the scene, but they’re already in control of it.

This week, the Stanley Fire Department recognizes our telecommunicators during National Telecommunicators Week.

These professionals answer calls in moments of fear, confusion, and urgency. In seconds, they gather critical information, prioritize response, and direct the right resources where they’re needed most. While others are reacting, they are focused, composed, and working the problem.

Join us in recognizing and thanking our telecommunicators for the work they do every day.

FIREFIGHTER PROFILE | NATHAN ANZALONE

You see the calls. You see the response. Now we want you to meet the people behind it.

For Firefighter/EMT Nathan Anzalone, he says this job is simple at its core Be there for people when they need it most. Nathan says he’s always believed his purpose is to serve others, especially during difficult moments.

When someone calls 911, they’re not just looking for help, they’re looking for someone they can trust to show up ready. That’s the role he’s committed to filling every time the tones drop.

Originally from Kannapolis, Nathan found that same strong sense of community here in Stanley. It’s a place where people look out for each other, and that’s something that’s shaped how he approaches the job and the people he serves.

A 2022 graduate of A.L. Brown High School, Nathan also brings a different side to the firehouse. He spent years involved in band, and music still plays a big role in his life today. It’s how he stays grounded and focused outside of the job.

Nathan has been with the Stanley Fire Department for one year and currently holds both North Carolina Firefighter and North Carolina EMT certifications.

For him, this isn’t just a career, it’s a calling.

We’re grateful for Nathan’s commitment to this community, and he’s one of many who continue to show up and serve the Town of Stanley every day.

Please join us in congratulating Fire Chief Gary Hilton on a significant professional accomplishment.

Chief Hilton has been awarded the Advanced Firefighter Certificate from the NC State Firefighters' Association

This distinguished certification requires:
• Advanced levels of firefighter certification
• Continued professional education
• Extensive training hours
• Years of dedicated fire service

Earning this recognition reflects Chief Hilton’s long-standing commitment to professional growth and to leading from the front.

His continued investment in education and training strengthens the Stanley Fire Department and enhances the level of service we provide to the citizens of Stanley every day.

Congratulations, Chief Hilton. We’re proud of you and grateful for your leadership.