NORFOLK, Va. — History is being made in the Mermaid City. Norfolk Fire-Rescue recently appointed the first African American Fire Marshal in department history.
“Any time you step outside of your comfort zone and you’re learning something new, you have an opportunity to grow,” said Fire Marshal Damon Langley.
Throughout Langley’s 24-year career with Norfolk Fire-Rescue, he’s always looked for ways to improve.
“From fire instructor," he said continuing, "I taught an EMT class. I was involved in our hiring and recruitment process along with becoming a PIO.”
He even served as a battalion chief at Station 1. Though, he initially had plans on becoming a nurse.
"I worked in the emergency room as an ER technician with plans to go to school to become a nurse," Langley said. "They slowly let me know that this would be the right profession for me."
Now, he’s gained a new title as fire marshal. He took on the new role last month.
“The fire marshal’s position was offered to me by the acting fire chief,” he said. “After a lot of consideration, I told him yes. Because I knew that it came with a lot more education.”
Langley is the first African American fire marshal in the department’s 150-year history. He didn’t think he’d be making city history. He thought assuming a new position meant taking on a new challenge.
“You may be uncomfortable stepping outside of what your normal daily operations do," Langley said. "I found throughout my career, that’s what made me better in every position.”
Langley hopes to use this opportunity to serve the department and engage with young people.
“Become a mentor to some of the younger kids in the neighborhoods and the communities that see me and say ‘Hey, that guy looks like me and maybe I can attain this as well.”