Please join us in bidding a heartfelt farewell to our esteemed Chief of Department, Justin Riewestahl, who has decided to step down after an incredible 12 years of service as Chief. Justin began his career with our department in 2003 and rose through the ranks as a Firefighter, EMT, Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and finally Chief of Department. His unwavering dedication to our community, our members, and Harnett County has left a lasting impact on all of us.

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Under Justin's leadership, our department achieved many significant milestones, including:

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• The purchase of a new ladder truck

• The acquisition of a new ambulance

• The creation, training, and implementation of a Type III Swift Water Rescue Team

• Assuming Leadership of Harnett County Technical Rescue Team

• Lowering our department's insurance rating to a Class 3

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Although we will deeply miss Justin’s leadership, we are thrilled that he will remain with us as a volunteer, continuing his service to Buies Creek as a Firefighter and Engineer. Additionally, we congratulate Justin on his recent promotion to Division Chief at the Fuquay-Varina Fire Department. We are confident he will excel in this new role, just as he has here with us.

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As we look forward to the future, we are pleased to announce Joshua Sorrell has been appointed by the Board of Directors as our new Chief of Department, effective January 2, 2025. Chief Sorrell has been a devoted member of Buies Creek Fire Department for 24 years, with a family history that spans three generations of volunteers. A native of Buies Creek, he started with the department as a Junior Firefighter in 2000 and has risen through the ranks as Firefighter, EMT, Lieutenant, Captain, and Deputy Chief. He was honored with the title of Officer of the Year in 2018 and 2020, and he is excited to take on this new role, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, a former Chief. Chief Sorrell is also proud to serve alongside his father, brother, and son in this new chapter.

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We invite you to learn more about Chief Sorrell and our department by visiting our Officers page on this site. We are excited for what the future holds and grateful for the leadership and dedication of both Chief Riewestahl and Chief Sorrell.