The Southaven Fire Department announced the promotion of Rick Carpenter to deputy chief, the department said. The department said he will oversee departmental operations and provide strategic leadership.
Carpenter began his career with the department in 1995 and has served 31 years, the department said. He has held the ranks of firefighter, driver, lieutenant, captain and battalion chief during his career, the department said.
The department said Carpenter has earned numerous technical rescue certifications and has served as a member of Mississippi Task Force 1, the state’s Urban Search and Rescue team. He is also a graduate of the Mississippi Executive Fire Officer (MEFO) program, the department said.
Born and raised in Southaven, Carpenter graduated from Southaven High School, the department said. He and his wife, Laura, have been married 32 years. They have a son, Dalton, and two grandchildren, the department said.
The department said Carpenter’s experience and community ties position him to lead efforts in emergency response, firefighter safety and professional development. The department said it looks forward to the leadership and vision he will bring to the role.
