Battalion Chief McElyea Wins State Cadet Advisor Award

Walton County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief TJ McElyea won the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association Cadet Advisor of the Year award for 2025.

McElyea founded Cadet Post 850 in 2024 to train high school students interested in fire service careers. He provides hands-on training and mentorship to cadets from neighborhoods around Lake DeFuniak.

Fire Chief Austin Pugh praised McElyea's work. "This recognition reflects Chief McElyea's commitment to developing future firefighters," Pugh said. "He built our cadet program from the ground up, and his leadership has created opportunities that will shape these young people for years to come."