Lt. Richard Lackey is the Fayetteville Fire Department's selection for Firefighter of the Year. He is to be recognized Thursday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m. at Melear's in Fayetteville.

Lackey has served the city since 1989 and has obtained certification as a paramedic, hazardous materials technician, in-service training instructor, firefighter, and fire inspector.

In the past year, Lackey has completed the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Professional Development Series, which consists of seven courses and 168 hours of class time.

“Lt. Lackey continues to demonstrate a commitment to his personal development to better serve our citizens well into the future,” Chief Alan Jones said in a written statement. “This dedication and the example he sets for his personnel truly deserve his recognition as Firefighter of the Year.”

The Fayetteville Optimist Club also is a participant in the Firefighter of the Year program.