On March 27, 2023, Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (AVFRD) Administrative member John DeLooper and Paramedic Lt. Sara Phillips were both recognized for their contributions to the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System (LC-CFRS) for 2022.   

John DeLooper was awarded the “LC-CFRS Administrative Volunteer of the Year” award. This award honors a volunteer member of the system who, in the performance of non-operational duties, exemplifies outstanding performance in the execution of their duties and their outstanding service and dedication which are keeping with the highest traditions of the fire and rescue system. 

John has been a member of the AVFRD for four years and is an integral part of the Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. Daniel Carroll, Executive Director of AVFRD said “without him, our firefighters, EMTs, and Paramedics would not be able to do their jobs in serving the community. From repairing the bay doors so that on duty staff can come and go as needed for emergencies in the community to ensuring that every system is running properly for the comfort of the crews, John responds to every call day or night in order to keep Station 6 and Station 22 in tip top shape.” 

AVFRD President Josh Townsend added “John goes above and beyond the call as an administrative volunteer member. Many of John’s responsibilities are behind the scenes, and he never wants or asks for any recognition – but you can ask any one of our members who he is or what he provides to the community and the most common reaction that we hear is ‘we couldn’t do it without him.’” 

John also serves on the Facilities and Maintenance Unit, leads our Policy and Procedures Unit where he ensures that common practices are carried out throughout our department and that we are within county, state, and federal guidelines and sits on the AVFRD Board of Directors.  

Lt. Sara Phillips was awarded the “EMS Provider of the Year” award. This award honors an EMS provider of the system who exemplifies outstanding performance in the day-to-day execution of their duties, and their outstanding service and dedication, which are keeping with the highest traditions of the fire and rescue system.   

Paramedic Sara Phillips has been a member of the AVFRD for five years.  When Sara joined AVFRD she had no prior EMS experience.  During this short time, she became an EMT, continued her training and volunteering, and most recently has become a released Paramedic in Loudoun County.  In addition to her volunteering in Loudoun County, Sara is also a part-time career Paramedic in Berkley County, West Virginia.  Executive Director Daniel Carroll said “Sara epitomizes what it means to serve. It’s members like Sara that add to the stellar reputation of AVFRD and that can help make our citizens know they will be cared for with the highest level of professionalism and care.”  

Assistant Rescue Chief, Mike Walsh said “Sara has become a role model for new volunteer members and exemplifies the type of EMS provider that makes our system successful.” 

In addition to providing direct patient care, Sara is also the EMS Training Officer for the AVFRD where she is responsible for coordinating and mentoring all the EMS certified personnel with the department. 

To learn more about Ashburn Fire & Rescue Department and how you can become involved, please visit www.joinavfrd.com. 

 

The Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (AVFRD) is committed to protecting the lives and property of Ashburn and Loudoun County residents and visitors by providing the best possible fire, rescue, emergency, and medical response services. We pledge to perform our duty with courage and dedication. We also strive to be active in our community and proactive with public education and prevention campaigns.