07/03/2026
**Retirement Announcement**
Today marks the end of an extraordinary era for Center Rural Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, Inc. Tonight, we celebrated the retirement of Chief Vaughn Rummage
After more than 45 years of dedicated service, Chief Vaughn Rummage has announced his retirement effective Monday, July, 6th. Chief Rummage joined Center Rural Volunteer Fire Department in 1981 and has faithfully served as Fire Chief since 1985—leading our department for an incredible 41 years.
Throughout his career, Chief Rummage has answered the call through countless fires, emergencies, and times of need. His leadership has shaped not only our department but also the future of fire protection in our community. He was instrumental in the design, development, and operation of three fire stations and played a key role in the acquisition and development of numerous fire apparatus that continue to serve our community today.
Beyond Center Rural VFD, Chief Rummage has been a respected leader throughout Stanly County. His commitment to the fire service extended through many years of service with the Stanly County Firefighters Association, where he served in numerous leadership roles, including multiple terms as President. His dedication to the fire service, the Town of Norwood, and the surrounding community has left a lasting impact that will be felt for generations.
Chief Rummage's legacy is measured not only in the buildings he helped construct or the equipment he helped acquire, but in the firefighters he mentored, the lives he touched, and the countless people he served with humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment.
Please join us in thanking Chief Vaughn Rummage for his decades of selfless service and wishing him a well-earned, happy, and healthy retirement. Your Center Rural VFD family is forever grateful for your leadership, friendship, and sacrifice. You will always be a part of this department.
As we celebrate Chief Rummage's remarkable career, we also look toward the future. The Center Rural Volunteer Fire Department Board of Directors has selected Kevin Rigoli to serve as the department's next Fire Chief.
It was a privilege to celebrate Chief Rummage and extend a warm welcome to Chief Rigoli this evening. The event was attended by numerous representatives from neighboring departments, various agencies, and vendors. We were also joined by State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor, who actually began his own fire service career at Center Rural under the mentorship of Chief Rummage. Demonstrating the profound impact of the Chief's role as a mentor, State Fire Marshal Taylor presented Chief Rummage with a special award from the Office of State Fire Marshal, recognizing his extensive years of committed service to the community.
Chief Rigoli brings a distinguished history in the fire service and a wealth of experience to Center Rural VFD. We are excited for the future under his leadership and look forward to introducing him to our community in the coming days.
We are deeply grateful to Chief Rummage for his immense contributions to our department and community. Our thanks also go to his wife, Sharon, for her unwavering support during his years of service.
Chief, thank you for your dedicated leadership, for keeping us safe, and for guiding us through every challenge. We also appreciate the professional environment you built, which provided the resources and mentorship necessary for our growth as firefighters.
Congratulations on your retirement Chief Rummage, and welcome, Chief Rigoli!
-The 56 House
