Last Updated on December 28, 2025 11:38 am
WATAUGA COUNTY – The Watauga County Firefighters' Association has announced its 2025 award recipients, recognizing outstanding service by emergency responders and community support from a local business.
Firefighter of the Year: Laramie Combs
Laramie Combs was named the 2025 Watauga County Firefighter of the Year. Combs brings more than 20 years of emergency services experience to Watauga County as a second-generation firefighter.
He currently serves as Assistant Chief with Cove Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Captain at Mountaineer Medics, and as a longtime member of the Watauga County Firefighters' Association Honor Guard unit.
“Laramie is no stranger to emergency services in Watauga County,” the Watauga County Firefighters' Association said in announcing the award.
Combs' multiple roles across fire and EMS services demonstrate his comprehensive commitment to emergency response in the county. His service with the Honor Guard unit also reflects his dedication to honoring fallen firefighters and maintaining ceremonial traditions within the emergency services community.
First Responder of the Year: Stephen Sisley
Stephen Sisley, a member of Meat Camp Volunteer Fire Department and Watauga Rescue, was named the 2025 Watauga County First Responder of the Year.
Meat Camp Fire Department publicly recognized Sisley's achievement, describing him as a valuable asset to both the department and Watauga County emergency services.
“Steve goes above and beyond in providing top-tier emergency medical assistance to those in need and is a valuable asset to our team,” Meat Camp Fire Department said in announcing the recognition. “We thank him for his dedication to our department and to Watauga County.”
Sisley serves in dual roles as both a firefighter with Meat Camp Volunteer Fire Department and as a member of Watauga Rescue, demonstrating his commitment to comprehensive emergency response services in the community.
Community Member of the Year: Blue Ridge Diner
Tina Watson and the staff at Blue Ridge Diner were named the 2025 Community Member of the Year.
The award recognizes the diner's exceptional service to first responders during Hurricane Helene and ongoing support for the emergency services community.
According to the Watauga County Firefighters' Association, Blue Ridge Diner went above and beyond keeping first responders fed during last year's Hurricane Helene relief efforts. The restaurant provided critical support to fire, EMS, and law enforcement personnel working around the clock during the emergency response.
Watson was recognized not only for the diner's Hurricane Helene response but also for creating a welcoming environment for first responders year-round. The firefighters' association noted that Blue Ridge Diner offers a safe place for fire, EMS, and law enforcement personnel to dine and consistently supports local fundraisers.
“Tina is an amazing community member,” the Watauga County Firefighters' Association said in announcing the award.
The awards are voted on by the Watauga County Firefighters' Association committee and recognize individuals and businesses that demonstrate exceptional support for emergency services and the broader Watauga County community.
