Local Fire Chief Honored by President for Heroic Leadership During Hurricane Helene

A local hero from western North Carolina is set to receive national recognition tonight. Chief Steve Freeman of Bat Cave Fire and Rescue will be honored by the President of the United States during the State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., for his department’s leadership and bravery during and after Hurricane Helene.

As the storm approached, Chief Freeman and his team went door to door urging residents to evacuate. Some refused to leave their homes—forcing first responders to make the heartbreaking task of recording next of kin information in case tragedy struck. Despite the dangers, the Bat Cave crew continued working tirelessly to protect lives and property throughout the disaster.

Freeman humbly credits the recognition to the dedication and unity of his department and the community.

“It’s very humbling,” he shared. “This honor isn’t for me—it’s all God. If it weren’t for Him, for this community, and for every member of our department coming together, none of this would be possible. It’s overwhelming in the best way.”

He added, “It’s not about me—it’s about all of us.”

Tonight’s State of the Union address will air nationwide on CBS, where Chief Freeman and the Bat Cave Fire and Rescue team will represent the heart and resilience of small-town North Carolina on one of the nation’s biggest stages.