Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad

09/01/2026

The Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad would like to sadly announce the passing of life-time member Thomas “Ed” Killebrew. Ed proudly served the citizens and visitors of The Roanoke Valley Community for 46 years. Ed demonstrated his compassion and selflessness by his continued service and support of the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad. We ask that you keep his family, friends, and peers in your continued thoughts and prayers . Rest easy RVRS 415, you will be missed.

03/05/2026

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-roanoke-valley-rescue-squads-mission?attribution_id=sl:3a0dd84e-b7dc-4087-a9b6-b96dfcc17994&lang=en_US&ts=1772750746&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp17_te-amp20_t2&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Hello, my name is Brian Forbes, and I'm reaching out to you on behalf of Ro… Brian Forbes needs your support for Support Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad’s Mission

03/05/2026

Today in a meeting the Board of directors announced decisive leadership changes following the discovery of significant financial inconsistencies. The Board made members aware that Timothy Pittman has been relieved of duty and Life time member Brian L Forbes has assumed the role of commander effective immediately.
The Board became aware of financial irregularities in January and at first thought these where simply accounting mistakes easily made by an unseasoned commander. However the vice chairman continued to investigate and on January 23 called an emergency board meeting to further discuss preliminary findings. The board declared a state of emergency for the department and Later that day Mr Pittman was relieved of his duties. A more detailed internal investigation and audit into his administrational expenses began.
On February 3 the board of directors filed a complaint with the Roanoke Rapids Police department. Who subsequently began investigating the matter.
These investigations revealed catastrophic damage to the squads ability to operate and maintain budget liabilities. The board learned of multiple business partners who have gone unpaid as well.
The Roanoke Rapids Police department saw it appropriate to charge the past commander with property embezzlement and issued him a bond.
The all volunteer Board of directors is deeply saddened and embarrassed by these events and the breach of trust they represent to the members of the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad, our business partners that are so vital to operations and most importantly to our community, our neighbors, our friends, and our families who we serve, to you we extend our deepest apologies.
Moving forward the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad will stay focused on our commitment to proudly serving the people of the Roanoke Valley area with a renewed commitment to transparency. The Board is confident and fully committed to restoring the squads ability to serve the people while re earning the trust that Roanoke Valley Rescue has enjoyed for the past 70 years. We have committed to and are currently developing new stringent financial protocols to ensure this never happens to our community Rescue Squad again.
We humbly ask for your patience and understanding as we grow past this devastating time and know the administration of the department is working diligently to implement enhanced oversight measures to safeguard the squads future and restore lost confidence in the community we live and serve.

Thank you for your time
Office of commander
Brian L Forbes .

01/23/2026

Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad wants everyone to be prepared for the major winter storm and the impacts it may cause. Please take necessary precautions, stay weather-aware, and avoid unnecessary travel if conditions worsen. Your safety is our top priority.

01/20/2026

⚠️ Winter Weather Outlook – This Weekend (1/24–1/25) ⚠️

Confidence is growing for the potential of moderate winter weather impacts this weekend, Saturday and Sunday (January 24–25). Regardless of snowfall or ice amounts, temperatures are expected to be extremely cold and could pose a risk to people, pets, and property.

Please take time now to prepare:
• Dress in layers and limit time outdoors
• Protect pets, pipes, and sensitive plumbing
• Check on elderly neighbors and those without reliable heat
• Ensure vehicles are winter-ready and emergency kits are stocked

Preparing early can make all the difference. Stay weather-aware, stay prepared, and stay safe

01/17/2026

🚨 Junior Member Achievement 🚨

The Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad is proud of our Junior Members John Boshell, Marcus Delvalle, and Gavin Ward for successfully completing the Try Diving Experience hosted by Halifax Community College, in partnership with the Gaston Volunteer Fire Department.

This hands-on experience allowed our junior members to gain valuable exposure to dive rescue operations and further their training in public safety. We are extremely proud of their dedication, professionalism, and willingness to learn.

👏 Great job, gentlemen—keep up the hard work as you continue to grow as the next generation of rescuers!

01/15/2026

The chance of wintry precipitation is increasing for Sunday. Please take time now to prepare and stay safe.

🔹 Monitor local weather updates
🔹 Avoid unnecessary travel if conditions worsen
🔹 Use caution on roads and bridges
🔹 Keep emergency supplies on hand
🔹 Dress in warm layers and plan ahead

Stay alert, stay prepared, and look out for one another.

01/10/2026

Members of the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad participated in hands-on training for a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Operations and Awareness Course.

This training strengthens our ability to safely recognize, respond to, and manage hazardous materials incidents. By continuing to train and improve our skills, we are better prepared for emergencies and better equipped to protect and serve the citizens of Roanoke Rapids and Halifax County.

Training today for a safer tomorrow. 🚑🛑

01/10/2026

🎉 Happy Belated Birthday, Kevin! 🎉

The Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad would like to wish our Junior Member, Kevin Brewer, a very Happy Belated Birthday!

We appreciate your dedication, positive attitude, and willingness to serve our community. We’re proud to have you as part of the RVRS family and look forward to watching you continue to grow in the rescue service. 🚑👏

01/04/2026

🎉 Happy Birthday! 🎉

The Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad would like to wish Lieutenant Blake Hitt (pictured right) a very happy birthday today!

Thank you for your continued dedication, leadership, and service to our squad and community. We hope your day is filled with celebration, appreciation, and well-deserved recognition. Stay safe and enjoy your special day! 🚑🎂