A 28-year-old woman became the first-ever female chief at Little River-Academy.
Becky Griffin took the role of interim chief after the former chief and four other members stepped down last week. Griffin said she can't share the reason behind their departure yet.
The mother of four has been at Little River-Academy Volunteer Fire Department for five years.
"It's a little surreal. It really is. Growing up, my brother and I watched 'Backdraft' and we really wanted to be firefighters. I never considered the possibility of being chief because it's a man's world," Griffin said.
The Bell County woman said her passion for the fire service started at a young age because her father and uncle worked for a volunteer fire department.
Griffin said Little River-Academy Volunteer Fire Department President and Treasurer Karen Hoelker nominated her for the position. Griffin was competing for the chief position with her husband but she ultimately earned the majority of the votes.
"I think it's great with someone with as much experience she has is able to step forward and go ahead and show everyone, that woman have this knowledge as well and also be supported by other men, not only in our community but the other fire chiefs as well," Hoelker said.
With her new role, the 28-year-old will manage 12 members and five applicants.
She also plans to bring change to the fire department including attending events and giving back to the community.
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