Laurens County Resident Honored with Life Saving Award from Newberry Fire Department

Laurens County resident Sr. Engineer Hastings Stewart was honored with the Life Saving Award by the Newberry Fire Department during a recognition program held on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

The event also celebrated the promotions of three firefighters and recognized the outstanding service of Stewart and many others for their dedicated work during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Stewart’s Life Saving Award stems from an incident on July 1, 2025, when Newberry firefighters responded to a structure fire involving multiple serious injuries. Serving as Engineer on Engine 1, Stewart established the crucial water supply for crews engaged in suppression efforts and then assisted with patient care for the most critically injured individual. Sr. Engineer Stewart acted promptly and without hesitation to provide life-saving care, working alongside law enforcement and EMS personnel in efforts that were credited with saving a life that day.

Newberry Fire Chief Gene Shealy commended Stewart’s actions, saying, “Sr. Engineer Stewart has always demonstrated professionalism, courage, and a deep commitment to serving others. His actions that day are a reflection of the dedication we see from him and our team every time we respond.”

Stewart’s recognition not only reflects his personal dedication but also highlights the commitment of all first responders who serve their communities with courage and professionalism—both in moments of crisis and in the long work of recovery.

Sr. Engineer Hastings Stewart (left) with Newberry Fire Chief Gene Shealy