Captain Eddy Harpe Retires from the Statesville Fire Department after 30 Years of Service

After 30 years of dedicated service, Captain Eddy Harpe is retiring from the Statesville Fire Department.

For Captain Harpe, the fire service wasn’t just a job – it was part of his life from the very beginning. He started as a junior firefighter at Trinity Volunteer Fire Department, following in the footsteps of his father, who helped found the department. That early experience shaped his future and led him to join the Statesville Fire Department in 1995.

Over the years, Captain Harpe saw the department grow from three stations to what will soon be five. He worked at every station except the new Station 1, giving him a front- row seat to how much the department has grown and changed.

One of his proudest accomplishments was helping build Statesville’s Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Team. He was part of the team that won the North Carolina Hazmat Association Challenge twice, competing against strong departments from across the region. He also found great pride in training new recruit classes and helping young firefighters begin their careers.

One of his most meaningful moments came when his son was hired by the Statesville Fire Department. Ironically, Captain Harpe missed his son’s pinning ceremony because he was out on a call – a reminder of the sacrifices that come with the job.

When asked what he’ll miss most, Captain Harpe says it’s the family atmosphere at the station. Firefighters spend a third of their lives together. They celebrate holidays, birthdays, and milestones side by side. Over time, coworkers truly become family. He’ll also miss the work itself – the fact that no two calls are ever the same.

In retirement, Captain Harpe is looking forward to setting his own schedule, spending more time with his wife, helping his daughter coach softball, and keeping up with his grandson.

His advice for those just starting their career? “Treat every call like it's your first and every crew member like they're family. The years go by faster than you think. Never stop learning and listen to those who have been there awhile. If you show up ready to learn every shift, you’ll have a long and rewarding career.”

Captain Harpe leaves behind 30 years of service, leadership, and dedication to the community. We thank him for his commitment and wish him the very best in retirement.

Learn more about the Statesville Fire Department on our website at fire.statesvillenc.net.