Chief Charlie Lewis Marks 40 Years
This November marks a remarkable milestone in the Leadwood community—one defined not by accolades or monetary reward, but by decades of selfless service, quiet leadership, and a deep sense of purpose and love for community. Charles “Charlie” Lewis is celebrating 40 years of volunteer service with the Leadwood Fire Protection District, a journey that began in November 1985 when a 16-year-old boy answered the call to serve.
For Charlie, the firehouse was never just a place to volunteer—it was a second home. He was raised within its walls, watching his father serve with pride and purpose. His father, a respected firefighter and former chief himself, instilled in young Charlie not only the technical knowledge of the job, but the heart behind the badge.
That early exposure laid the foundation for a lifetime of commitment. Over the last four decades, Charlie has grown from eager recruit to respected leader, embodying the values of courage, humility, and integrity. His calm presence under pressure and unmatched work ethic have made him a cornerstone of the department—and a trusted figure across the entire community.
In 1997, Charlie played a critical role during one of the department’s most transformative moments: the transition from the Leadwood Fire Association to the Leadwood Fire Protection District. It was a significant evolution, one that brought more stability, funding, and resources to better protect local residents. His vision, guidance, and understanding of the community helped shape what the department has become today.
That impact continued in tangible ways. Chief Lewis was instrumental in helping secure key grants that fueled the department’s growth—most notably, one that made possible the construction of the department’s current firehouse, completed in 2004. That building now stands as both a modern hub for emergency services and a symbol of Charlie’s lasting imprint.
But perhaps what makes Charlie’s contributions most extraordinary is that he’s done it all without ever taking a paycheck. Every hour spent responding to calls, mentoring new recruits, attending meetings, and leading his department has been purely voluntary. His reward has never been financial—it’s been the knowledge that he’s kept his neighbors safe and strengthened the community he’s always called home.
For 21 of his 40 years, Charlie has served as Fire Chief. Under his leadership, the department has advanced in technology, training, and safety—all while preserving the tight-knit, family atmosphere that first drew him in. He’s led by example, never asking for recognition, but always earning it.
His legacy is written not just in policy changes or facility upgrades, but in the people he’s mentored. His leadership style —firm but fair, humble but strong—has inspired many firefighters who have grown up under his leadership, learning far more than just emergency response skills.
“When I joined the fire department as a young teen, Charlie was my fire chief—the head guy, the boss, and the voice of calm in pure chaos,” shares Captain Brandon Hall.
“I’ve been one of Charlie’s guys for nearly 17 years now, and in that time, he’s been far more than just a chief to me. He’s been a mentor, a role model, a father figure, a friend, and a shoulder to lean on when I was at my breaking point. I couldn’t begin to list all the life lessons he’s taught me. He was there as I grew into adulthood, became a husband and a father, always guiding me—especially when I felt like giving up. I started as a junior firefighter with Charlie as my chief, and today, I’m a captain… and he’s still my chief. I can say without a doubt: I wouldn’t be the man I am or where I am today without Charlie.”
Lieutenant Dylan Miner, who also shared a heartfelt reflection on Charlie’s influence:
“Charlie Lewis has been a symbol of the fire service in our community for my entire life. I have memories of being a kid in school, seeing him come for Fire Safety Day and thinking how awesome it must be to help people. I was later given the opportunity to join the very organization I looked up to, and Chief Lewis has given me a true example of sacrifice and dedication. Without his help, guiding me in my career in the fire service, I could not be where I am today, doing the job I love. All I can say is thank you, Chief! Thank you for all the sacrifices you have made over these four decades for THEM—the people who have called on you throughout your career on their worst days and whom you have selflessly answered the call for.”
Chief Lewis has become a living bridge between generations—carrying the stories, values, and traditions of the department’s past into its future. He honors those who came before him and inspires those who follow, sharing lessons not just about firefighting, but about responsibility, compassion, and service to others.
And this legacy isn’t his alone. Just as Charlie once followed in his father’s footsteps, his own children have grown up within the firehouse walls, surrounded by the same sense of duty, loyalty, and community. The Lewis family’s connection to Leadwood’s fire service runs deep—spanning decades, generations, and hundreds of lives touched.
As the Leadwood Fire Protection District honors this rare and inspiring milestone, one truth is clear: Chief Charlie Lewis has not only served his community—he has shaped it. His story is proof that the greatest leaders are often the quietest, the most powerful legacies are built over time, and the highest form of service asks for nothing in return.
To Chief Charlie Lewis—40 years of volunteer dedication, 21 years of steady leadership, and a legacy not measured in titles, but in lives impacted. He may have served without monetary compensation, but his reward is far greater: the enduring respect of his peers, the love of his community, and a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
FFAM
