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Rural Hall Fire Department Welcomes New Chief, Jason McInnis

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 11:54 GMT by WXII 12 NEWS

Rural Hall Fire Department Welcomes New Chief Following Retirement After Decades of Service

The Town of Rural Hall, North Carolina, has officially appointed Jason McInnis as its new Fire Chief, marking a significant transition for the department after the recent retirement of long-serving Chief Ron Bost. The change, announced and celebrated in late May 2024, represents both an end to an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the volunteer fire department that has served the community for over seven decades.

Chief McInnis brings considerable experience to the role, having served with the Rural Hall Fire Department (RHFD) for 18 years, holding various positions including Lieutenant and Assistant Chief. He was officially sworn in at a ceremony held on May 29th, surrounded by town officials, fire department personnel, and community members. The transition underscores the importance of continuity and experience within volunteer emergency services, particularly in smaller towns where such departments are integral to public safety.

A Legacy of Leadership: Honoring Ron Bost’s Tenure

The appointment of McInnis follows the retirement of Chief Ronald “Ron” Bost, who served as Fire Chief for a remarkable 27 years. Bost's departure was met with widespread sadness and gratitude from the community. He began his career with RHFD in 1983 and rose through the ranks, dedicating over four decades to protecting Rural Hall and its residents. During his tenure, Bost oversaw significant departmental growth, including the acquisition of new equipment, expansion of training programs, and improvements to infrastructure. He was instrumental in maintaining a high level of professionalism within the volunteer force, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and dedication amongst members.

As reported by The Winston-Salem Journal (linked within the wxii12.com article), Bost’s retirement celebration highlighted his unwavering commitment to the town. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in supporting the fire department and expressed confidence in the future leadership under McInnis. His departure leaves a void that will be challenging to fill, but the RHFD is committed to building upon the foundation he established.

Jason McInnis: A Familiar Face Ready to Lead

Jason McInnis's familiarity with the Rural Hall Fire Department provides a sense of stability during this leadership transition. He understands the department’s culture, its strengths, and areas where improvements can be made. While his appointment was praised by town officials and fire personnel alike, he acknowledges the responsibility that comes with assuming such a prominent role.

"I'm honored to have been selected as Fire Chief," McInnis stated in the wxii12.com report. "I’m looking forward to working alongside our dedicated team of volunteers to continue providing exceptional service to the community." He emphasized his commitment to maintaining the department’s high standards, focusing on training and recruitment to ensure a robust and well-equipped firefighting force.

McInnis's immediate priorities include assessing current operational procedures, identifying areas for modernization, and strengthening relationships with neighboring fire departments and emergency response agencies. He plans to continue Bost's legacy of community engagement, actively seeking opportunities to educate residents about fire safety and promote volunteerism within the RHFD. The challenges facing Rural Hall are similar to those faced by many small-town volunteer fire departments: maintaining sufficient numbers of volunteers amidst increasing demands and limited resources.

Volunteer Firefighting: A Cornerstone of Rural Communities

The Rural Hall Fire Department, like many in North Carolina and across the nation, relies heavily on dedicated volunteers. This model presents unique challenges. Recruiting and retaining qualified volunteers requires significant effort, as these individuals balance their firefighting duties with full-time jobs and family commitments. Funding for equipment, training, and operational expenses also depends heavily on town budgets and community fundraising efforts.

The wxii12.com article subtly highlights the ongoing struggle to attract new volunteers, a concern echoed in numerous reports about volunteer fire departments nationwide. McInnis’s focus on recruitment will be crucial in ensuring the RHFD can continue to effectively respond to emergencies. He intends to explore innovative strategies for outreach and engagement to broaden the pool of potential candidates and address the demographic shifts impacting volunteerism.

Looking Ahead: A Future Focused on Service & Community

The transition from Chief Bost to Chief McInnis represents more than just a change in leadership; it signifies a commitment to preserving the vital role that the Rural Hall Fire Department plays within the community. While acknowledging the immense contributions of his predecessor, Jason McInnis is eager to implement his own vision for the department's future, focusing on continued professional development, enhanced community outreach, and sustained operational excellence. The town of Rural Hall can expect a seamless transition under the new leadership, built upon decades of dedicated service and a shared commitment to protecting lives and property. The success of this transition hinges on the ongoing support from the community, recognizing and valuing the selfless dedication of its volunteer firefighters.

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