RICHLAND, Wash. – Richland Fire Chief Tom Huntington was named the 2025 recipient of the Dan Packer Fire Chief of the Year Award by the Washington Fire Chiefs (WFC) Association, the city said in a release.
The award, presented during the annual WFC Banquet, honors fire service leaders who exemplify professionalism, leadership and community service.
Huntington, who has served Richland for 30 years, became Fire Chief in 2015. His leadership has spurred regional partnerships and enhanced emergency response in the Tri-Cities region, the city noted.
Significant achievements under his leadership include opening Richland’s sixth fire station and launching the Heart Safe Richland Initiative with Kadlec Regional Medical Center.
This initiative earned recognition from the American Heart Association for advancing cardiac care through community CPR academies and AED installations.
Huntington also spearheaded a $29 million project to modernize emergency communications in Benton and Franklin Counties, set for completion in 2026.
Michael C. Harris, Fire Chief for Franklin County Fire District #3, praised Huntington’s service, saying, “Chief Huntington has consistently exemplified what it means to serve with strength, vision, and humility.”
Reflecting on the honor, Huntington expressed his gratitude, stating, “This award is a reflection of the people I work alongside every day. I’m proud to share this recognition with all of them.”
