BELHAVEN — Belhaven Fire and Rescue recently named Peter Budge as firefighter of the year.
“I feel honored,” Budge said. “I was completely unaware.”
He was surprised with the honor at Belhaven Fire and Rescue’s annual banquet.
The fire department has 26 active members on the roster. It provides Belhaven and the surrounding area 24-hour protection from fires, rescues and other emergencies. Belhaven also answers mutual aid calls in Beaufort and Hyde counties.
In addition to volunteering in the field, Budge was active in filing for a $500,000 FEMA grant that would cover the costs of a new station. He filled out the paperwork and sought support from local congressmen.
Budge joined the fire department four years ago. He also does scuba diving search and rescue missions.
“I just wanted to be an active part of the community,” he said.