Raymond Hudman’s 60 years of dedicated service as a firefighter were recognized Saturday as Hudman was named the first ever Firefighter of the Year by the Chilton County Volunteer Firefighters Association.

The announcement came at the second annual Fire Prevention Fun Day and Firefighter Appreciation Day, held at the Central Alabama Horse Club Arena off Highway 145.

“I appreciate the confidence the county departments have in me to give me this award,” said Hudman. “[Firefighting] was one of my first loves. My wife’s first and the fire department is second.”

Hudman added that he felt “unworthy” and “humble” upon receiving the title.

Hudman has more than 60 years of firefighting experience — four years as a firefighter, seven years as engineer, 10 years as lieutenant and seven years as captain with the Montgomery Fire Department.

In 1978, Hudman brought his experience to Chilton County and became chief of Enterprise Fire Department. He lived in the community all his life, and everyone knew him and gave him full support.

Hudman added that he was blessed to be the leader because he had hard-working, interested people to help with the fire department’s duties.

Other events going on at Saturday’s Fire Prevention Fun Day included rides for kids, a tour of fire and rescue equipment and vehicles used by area departments, a dunking booth, games involving fire hoses, fire safety information booths and more.

The event was held in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week, which was observed Oct. 8-15.

Sponsors included the Chilton County Volunteer Firefighters Association, Care Ambulance, RPS Ambulance, Fred Headley Chevron, Crystal Springs Water and Bud’s Best Cookies.

“Basically, it’s a way to show the community what we have to offer,” said CCVFA President Adam Price.