Annapolis Professional Firefighters Local 1926

10/08/2026

The Annapolis Professional Firefighters Local 1926, extend our deepest condolences to our brothers and sisters of the Durham Fire Department and IAFF Local 668, following the tragic line-of-duty death of a Durham firefighter.

Our thoughts are with the fallen firefighter’s family and loved ones, the two injured firefighters and their families, and every member of Durham Fire and Local 366 as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.

09/30/2026

It’s awfully bold for a politician to complain that a labor union is “too political.”

Labor unions advocate for their members. That means engaging with elected officials, speaking publicly about the decisions they make, and holding them accountable when those decisions affect our members, our families, and the communities we serve.

It certainly seems the problem isn’t that we’re engaging in politics — it’s that we’re engaging politicians who may not like being held accountable.

If you support firefighters and public safety, we’ll recognize it. If you don’t, we’ll talk about that too.

That isn’t being “too political.”

That’s representation.

Thank you to Alderman Keanuú Smith-Brown / KSB for his support and his reason for abstaining. He knows and understands that a 2% Cost of Living Adjustment doesn’t really adjust our cost of living.

Keanuú Smith-Brown said the agreements “fall short” while Rob Savidge accused firefighters of becoming “political.”

09/29/2026

Apparently after years of questioning every dollar spent on public safety, when it finally came time to actually cast a vote on the Local 1926 collective bargaining agreement, Rob Savidge, Annapolis Alderman, Ward 7 found a new position:

ABSTAIN.

Funny how that works.

Plenty to say from the sidelines. Plenty of questions when there’s a microphone. But when it’s time to put your name next to a yes or no and actually own the decision? Suddenly sitting this one out seems like the move.

Our members deserve better. The residents of this city deserve better. And the residents of Ward 7 who elected him to make these decisions deserve better.

We may disagree on plenty, but at least have the courage to vote.

Public service requires making decisions—not avoiding them when it’s politically convenient.

09/26/2026

What a morning! Great turnout today as we came together to celebrate our retirees, hosted by Annapolis Professional Firefighters Local 1926 and the Annapolis Fire Department. It's always special to see familiar faces, swap old stories, and be reminded of the bond that this job creates, one that doesn't fade just because the uniform comes off.

To all our retirees: thank you for your years of service, your sacrifice, and the example you set for the next generation coming up behind you. You built the foundation we stand on today.

And a big thank you to brother Peabody for putting this whole breakfast together and all that helped,Great job as always!

Here's to many more mornings like this one.

09/25/2026

What a great night at the 100 Club Banquet!

We’re incredibly proud to share that Brother Ukeme Akpan and President Joe Pilat were each awarded $5,000 scholarships! These scholarships are a wonderful investment in the future of those who serve and protect our communities.

We’re also excited to share that President Pilat was nominated for the Al Brandt Unsung Hero Award, recognizing those who make a meaningful difference through their dedication and service, often behind the scenes.

We are so thankful to the 100 Club for their continued support of our members, our families, and the public safety community. Congratulations to Ukeme and Joe on these well-deserved honors!

09/11/2026

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09/05/2026

Technical Rescue Training

Over the past month, Annapolis firefighters have been putting in the work to sharpen and maintain our Technical Rope Rescue and Confined Space Rescue capabilities through a series of hands-on training evolutions.

Earlier this month, crews also had the opportunity to train alongside our partners at the Anne Arundel County Fire Department, working together to build skills, improve coordination, and strengthen our regional technical rescue capabilities.

At the Surface Acquisition Logistics Center (SALC), collocated with the Surface Forces Logistics Center (SFLC) in Baltimore, Maryland, crews worked through realistic maritime and industrial confined-space scenarios. Training included low-angle and high-angle rope rescue, confined-space entry and rescue, rope-system construction, patient packaging, raising and lowering operations, hauling systems, and rescues from tight and difficult-to-access spaces.

Training aboard vessels presented unique challenges, including vertical access, limited working areas, complex rigging, communication, patient movement, and crew coordination. These evolutions challenged members to solve problems in an environment where access is limited and even simple tasks can become complex.

Technical rescue incidents are low-frequency, high-risk events. Success doesn’t happen when the call comes in—it is built through repetition, disciplined fundamentals, equipment familiarity, and crews that can communicate and work together when conditions are challenging.

We are proud of the continued commitment of our firefighters to maintaining these specialized skills and capabilities. A huge thank you to the Surface Acquisition Logistics Center/SFLC and our partners at the Anne Arundel County Fire Department, along with everyone who helped provide the training, instruction, equipment, and support throughout the month.

Train hard. Train together. Be ready for the call.

09/02/2026

Congratulations to Battalion Chief Stephen Truesdell on an incredible career and a very well-deserved retirement!

From Firefighter/Paramedic and FTO to Lieutenant, Captain, and ultimately Battalion Chief of Special Operations, Chief Truesdell dedicated his career to serving others and making those around him better. His leadership spanned HazMat, Technical Rescue, Marine and Dive operations, Health & Safety, Peer Support, and regional maritime response initiatives.

Throughout his career, he was recognized for his actions during some of our community’s most significant incidents, including the Capital Gazette shooting, as well as countless moments that will never come with an award or citation.

More importantly, Chief Truesdell was an incredible leader, mentor, instructor, and friend to so many.

Congratulations, Chief, and thank you for everything you gave to the department, the community, and all of us fortunate enough to work alongside you. Enjoy retirement—you’ve earned it!