Berkeley County firefighter honored with prestigious “Distinguished Mountaineer” award

BERKELEY COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – On July 31, 2024, Governor Jim Justice recognized Lieutenant Jeremy Taylor of the Berkeley County Fire Department with the esteemed “Distinguished Mountaineer” award.

The award honors Taylor for his lifelong commitment to public service, spanning fire service, emergency medical service, and law enforcement.

Lt. Taylor’s dedication to the fire service is evident through his over three decades of volunteer work.

He has served with the Fountain Fire Department, Fort Ashby Fire Department, and currently, the Baker Heights Fire Department.

His commitment extends beyond firefighting; Taylor also worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for more than ten years with Tri-County Ambulance and Valley Medical Transport.

In addition to his work as a firefighter and EMT, Taylor served as a Sheriff’s Deputy in Mineral County, where he was twice elected as Sheriff.

After retiring from law enforcement, Taylor began a second career in 2019 as a firefighter with the Berkeley County Fire Department, where he was promoted to Lieutenant in 2024.

For more than a decade, Taylor has also served as a Fire Service Instructor for West Virginia University and the West Virginia Public Service Training.

Lt. Taylor’s dedication to public service is matched by his commitment to his family. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Jennifer, and a proud father of three daughters.