Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department Installs 2026 Officers

A Year of Service: 538 Calls, 3,008 Manhours

Fire Chief Dave Robey delivered his 2025 annual report, outlining what he described as “a tough year” for the department.

In 2025, CBVFD responded to 538 incidents, including:

• 104 fires

• 42 motor vehicle accidents

• 230 emergency medical calls

• 162 public service calls

Behind those responses were 3,008 manhours of volunteer service:

• 1,214 hours in direct service

• 600 hours in training

• 540 hours in fundraising

• 654 hours in work details

Chief Robey also highlighted a major milestone: in August 2025, CBVFD marked 130 years of service as a volunteer fire department—an enduring testament to its proud tradition as the “Pride of the Potomac.”

A long-awaited addition to the fleet also arrived in 2025. The department’s nearly $1 million fire engine, ordered almost three years prior, was placed into service as Engine 1 in April, enhancing the department’s ability to respond safely and effectively.

Remembering Fallen Members

While operationally busy, 2025 was especially difficult for the department family. In a nine-month span, CBVFD lost five Life Members and one former member:

• Pam Graham, Ladies Auxiliary – March 9

• Robert Owens – May 5

• Teddy Trowbridge – September 2

• Donald Bradley – October 4

• Cecil Rose – November 1

• Mike Taylor, Former Member – November 1

“These Life Members laid the foundation for us to be the proud organization that we are today,” Chief Robey said. “They, along with their families, will always be a special part of CBVFD.”

Several special presentations honored their legacies. Robert Owens was posthumously awarded Life Membership, with a plaque presented to his family. The department’s Watch Office was officially dedicated in loving memory of Teddy Trowbridge, with a plaque to be permanently displayed at its entrance. Plaques were also presented in memory of Donald Bradley and Cecil Rose in recognition of their dedicated service.

Chief Robey additionally presented Patricia “Pat” Fitzgerald with a plaque honoring 50 years of outstanding dedication and service to the Town of Colonial Beach and Westmoreland County.

Installation of 2026 Officers

The official swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Assistant Chief Calvin Balderson of the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department.

2026 CBVFD Line Officers:

• Dave Robey, Fire Chief

• Branden Robey, Assistant Fire Chief

• Chris Saulnier, Deputy Fire Chief

• Danny Oursler, Captain and Training Officer

• Ricky Rankin, First Lieutenant

• Martel Kelly, Second Lieutenant

2026 Administrative Officers:

• Antwan Smith, President

• Bill Cease, Vice President

• Tina Fenwick, Secretary

• Frances Bowen, Treasurer

• Mike Worrell, Engineer

• Alan Robey, Assistant Engineer and Board of Directors

• Nate Jackson, Board of Directors

2026 Ladies Auxiliary Officers:

• Amanda Saulnier, President

• Linda Brubaker, Vice President

• Frances Bowen, Treasurer

• Sandy Bone, Secretary

• Arbutus Sanford, Chaplain

• Bonnie Gouvisis, Conductress

• Jackie Worrell, Member at Large

Guest Speaker Emphasizes Commitment and Change

The evening’s guest speaker was Matt Gilroy, District Chief for the Naval District Washington Fire Department in Dahlgren/Indian Head. Gilroy brings over 30 years of service with the La Plata, Maryland Volunteer Fire Department—including time as chief—and 20 years with Naval District Washington fire departments.

Gilroy reflected on the evolution of firefighting equipment and responsibilities over the decades.

“Technology has driven the cost of equipment up to triple, but the need to protect our firefighters has only grown,” he said. “Whether you're a professional or a volunteer, the commitment to duty is unchanged. Our job remains the same—to help those in their worst moments.”

He encouraged members to continue training hard, relying on one another, and maintaining focus on family and faith as the foundation of strength in the fire service.

Recognizing Excellence in 2025

The department also recognized members for outstanding service:

Top 5 Call Runners for 2025:

• 5th Place (145 calls) – Bill Cease

• 4th Place (199 calls) – Ricky Rankin

• 3rd Place (254 calls) – Chief Dave Robey

• 2nd Place (256 calls) – Bill Malone

• 1st Place (297 calls) – Michael Chauncey

The 2025 Chiefs Award was presented to Bill Cease and Danny Oursler.
The 2025 Firefighter of the Year Award was presented to Michael Chauncey.
The inaugural 2025 President’s Award was presented to Chief Dave Robey.

Ladies Auxiliary President Amanda Saulnier highlighted the Auxiliary’s extensive fundraising efforts, presenting Chief Robey with a $24,000 check in support of the department’s mission. In turn, Arbutus Sanford presented President Saulnier with flowers and gifts in appreciation of her dedication and leadership.

President Smith expressed gratitude to all members who contributed countless hours to organizing the ceremony. Special thanks were extended to SignWorks of KG, a Division of L.R. Reynolds Engraving & Signs, Capt. Faunce Seafood, and Miss Lora’s Flowers and Gifts for their generous support.

Serving with Pride

As CBVFD enters its 131st year of service, the department remains steadfast in its mission to protect life and property while honoring the legacy of those who built its foundation.

Community support continues to play a vital role in sustaining volunteer fire and EMS services. Residents are reminded to test smoke alarms monthly, develop and practice a home fire escape plan, and consider supporting the department through volunteer service or donations.

For updates and community events, follow the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department and learn how you can help support the “Pride of the Potomac.”