Murfreesboro, TN -

Rutherford County Fire and Rescue Captain Shane Richardson was honored Wednesday with the 2025 Firefighter of the Year Award, presented by the Noon Exchange Club during a lunch reception at Through the Grapevine in Murfreesboro. Surrounded by family and colleagues, Richardson accepted the award with humility and gratitude, reflecting on a career built on dedication and a deep love for the job.

Richardson attended the ceremony with his wife, Shea, alongside Fire Chief Larry Farley and Training Officer Cody Smith. Farley praised Richardson’s impact on the department, calling him “one of our most highly trained and respected instructors” and emphasizing his role in preparing firefighters both technically and mentally for the challenges they face.

“This isn’t a job, it’s a calling,” Richardson said, fresh off a 48-hour shift that included 56 engine runs. He credited his wife for her unwavering support, saying he wouldn’t have made it this far without her.

Richardson’s journey began at age 16, volunteering at his local fire hall. He joined the La Vergne fire crew in 2014 and transitioned to Rutherford County in 2021. Since then, he’s watched the department grow from 48 to 115 firefighters, a testament to the county’s commitment to public safety and the strength of its leadership.

When asked about the toughest calls, Richardson didn’t hesitate—any situation involving children hits hardest, especially as a father himself. But he also shared moments of joy, recalling the three babies he’s delivered in the field, including one just two months ago on the side of Interstate 24.

The award recognizes not only Richardson’s skill and leadership but also his compassion and commitment to the community. In every emergency, he brings calm, courage, and care—qualities that make him not just a firefighter, but a role model for all.

Captain Shane Richardson was honored Wednesday with the 2025 Firefighter of the Year Award, presented by the Noon Exchange Club during a lunch reception at Through the Grapevine in Murfreesboro. Surrounded by family and colleagues, Richardson accepted the award with humility and gratitude, reflecting on a career built on dedication and a deep love for the job.

Richardson attended the ceremony with his wife, Shea, alongside Fire Chief Larry Farley and Training Officer Cody Smith. Farley praised Richardson’s impact on the department, calling him “one of our most highly trained and respected instructors” and emphasizing his role in preparing firefighters both technically and mentally for the challenges they face.

“This isn’t a job, it’s a calling,” Richardson said, fresh off a 48-hour shift that included 56 engine runs. He credited his wife for her unwavering support, saying he wouldn’t have made it this far without her.

Richardson’s journey began at age 16, volunteering at his local fire hall. He joined the La Vergne fire crew in 2014 and transitioned to Rutherford County in 2021. Since then, he’s watched the department grow from 48 to 115 firefighters, a testament to the county’s commitment to public safety and the strength of its leadership.

When asked about the toughest calls, Richardson didn’t hesitate—any situation involving children hits hardest, especially as a father himself. But he also shared moments of joy, recalling the three babies he’s delivered in the field, including one just two months ago on the side of Interstate 24.

The award recognizes not only Richardson’s skill and leadership but also his compassion and commitment to the community. In every emergency, he brings calm, courage, and care—qualities that make him not just a firefighter, but a role model for all.