New year brings new leadership for Hugo Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Chief Johnny Craft is handed a gift from his Chief officers during a Christmas celebration last month. Photo from Hugo Volunteer Fire & Rescue Facebook page.
As one of the original chartered members of the Hugo Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Chief Johnny Craft was the youngest Chief in Lenoir County in 1984 when he first stepped into that role. He now passes that torch to Chief Jonas Howard, another veteran within the department.
Craft served as Chief of the Hugo department from 1984-1988, 1995-2000, and 2012-2020. The decision to relinquish the role came down to timing, his term was due to end in 2020, but he didn't want to make decisions that would affect the incoming Chief.
Chief Johnny Craft. Submitted photo.
“I’m looking forward to just being a fireman and driving the truck,” said Craft who will stay on with the department.
Incoming Chief Howard began to volunteer with Hugo at the age of twelve in the Junior Firefighter program. When he turned 18 his official years of service began and continued for 21 years for a combined total of 27 years.
"Chief Craft led me and many other young firefighters to where we are today. He brought us through the ranks and has taught much more than just firefighting," said Howard.
They learned the importance of the business side of the fire services, respect, and building relationships through Craft's teachings.
Howard's vision as Chief is to advance upon the foundation that Chief Craft has built. Craft has built a progressive department, according to Howard, leading to multiple accomplishments under his leadership.
Hugo Volunteer Fire & Rescue has 55 active, dedicated members. Howard's goal is to retain these members and keep working to help their community.
Chief Jonas Howard. Submitted photo.
"We could not do it without each and every one of them," said Howard.
The public has been a great teammate in their success. They have a hard-working group that sponsors four fundraisers each year; the Miss Neuse Pageant, Neuse River Duck Race, Reverse Drawing, and their Annual Fireman's Day. They appreciate everyone who has been generous enough to patronize these events in the past and look forward to that continued support.
"We are always looking for qualified applicants to join the team. Anyone within five miles of any four Hugo fire stations may join the department and give back to the community," said Howard.
