At the 47 th Annual Firefighters Recognition Day at Georgia’s State Capitol, retired Fire Prevention Director Larry Smallwood was named the George M. Lanier Memorial Fire Inspector of the Year by the Georgia Firefighters Inspectors Association. Chief Marvin Riggins, eighteen fellow firefighters, and County Manager Dr. Keith Moffett attended the ceremony and helped recognize him.

Director Smallwood retired in 2015 from the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department after nearly 40 years as an Inspector, both at the local and state level. Since retirement, he has continued to work with local venues and teach the Principles of Fire Inspection at the Georgia Fire Academy. Director Smallwood is a founding member of the Association and has served as its president on numerous occasions.

“Director Smallwood is a great choice for this recognition because he has devoted his entire adult life to serving and protecting the people of Macon-Bibb and Georgia through code development and enforcement,” says Fire Chief Marvin Riggins. “It makes me feel exceptionally proud to know that our people and our department are recognized for their expertise and professionalism at this level.”

“This is just further proof that we have one of the best fire departments in the state and in the country, and our community is very well served by their dedication, expertise, and professionalism,” says Macon-Bibb County Mayor Robert Reichert. “Congratulations to Director Smallwood, and our thanks go to him for his many years protecting us.”