Each May, the Asheville Fire Department (AFD) comes together to honor the extraordinary bravery, service, and dedication of its members during an annual awards banquet. This year’s ceremony carried particular significance, recognizing those who played pivotal roles in responding to Tropical Storm Helene. Among the evening’s speakers was Brock Long, Executive Chairman of Hagerty and a native of North Carolina, who brought a message of gratitude and admiration to the first responders of his home state.
Brock opened his remarks by reflecting on his connection to the region, describing Asheville as a place that has always felt like home. Yet his message was grounded in much more than sentiment. Drawing on decades of experience in emergency management, including his tenure as the former Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), he spoke directly to the immense challenges faced by the AFD and the broader city during and after Tropical Storm Helene.
“Helene changed lives,” Brock said. “It tested your strength. But even in the face of loss, Asheville stood tall.”
He went on to detail the department’s heroic response, including more than 200 search and rescues, over 1,000 emergency evacuations, and 1,000 miles searched in storm conditions. These were not just numbers, he emphasized. They represented lives saved, families reunited, and neighbors protected during their most vulnerable moments.
Brock also commended the City of Asheville’s leadership and strategic response. This included the early activation of its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and a coordinated approach to infrastructure challenges. One notable success was the restoration of potable water in just 53 days, achieved through close coordination with the United States (US) Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). He also highlighted the safe disposal of hazardous storm debris, a critical public health measure carried out in partnership with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Brock Long at the AFD’s 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony
Beyond emergency response, Brock underscored Asheville’s inclusive approach to long-term recovery. The City has prioritized transparent communications, community engagement, and the allocation of resources to where they are needed most. From small business grants to rental assistance and environmental health protections, Asheville’s recovery has been as people-focused as it has been strategic.
In closing, Brock reminded attendees that the sacrifices made by the AFD extend far beyond the call of duty, often at personal cost.
“What you did during and after Helene wasn’t just a response,” he said. “It reflected who you are—and who Asheville is at its core: resilient, compassionate, and courageous.”
Ultimately, Brock’s words echoed a powerful tribute—not only to the past but also to the enduring strength and unity of a community shaped by its heroes.
Brock Long is the Executive Chairman of Hagerty Consulting and the former FEMA Administrator. During his tenure at FEMA, he led responses to major disasters and implemented pivotal initiatives to strengthen emergency management systems. Previously, Brock served as Director of Alabama’s Emergency Management Agency, where he played a key role in responding to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. With over 25 years of experience, Brock now enhances Hagerty’s leadership and advocacy efforts, advancing the future of emergency management.