A house RESOLUTION

 

to recognize and honor Fire chief Jason Stephen Perzan, of Horry County, for over twenty-five years of exemplary service to the people of Conway and to congratulate him on being named Fire chief of the Conway Fire Department.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were pleased to learn that on April 22, 2026, Jason Stephen Perzan was appointed fire chief of the Conway Fire Department; and

 

Whereas, he began his distinguished career in the fire service with the Hinsdale Fire Department in Hinsdale, New Hampshire, in January of 1998.  He later relocated and transitioned into a permanent role with the City of Conway on January 15, 2001, when he was hired as a Firefighter I. Through dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public safety, he steadily advanced through the ranks. He was promoted to firefighter III in 2002, fire sergeant in 2006, fire lieutenant in 2008, fire captain in 2012, assistant fire chief in 2021, and reclassified to deputy fire chief in 2024; and

 

Whereas, prior to being officially named director of emergency management, fire chief, Jason was appointed as interim director of emergency management, fire chief on November 19, 2025. In this role, he continued to demonstrate strong leadership, sound judgment, and a commitment to both his department and the community he serves; and

 

Whereas, Chief Perzan holds an associate degree in fire science, further strengthening his knowledge and leadership within the fire service; and

 

Whereas, he was honored with the City of Conway Officer of the Year Award in 2012, 2014, and 2016; and

 

Whereas, in 2020, Chief Perzan, a Captain at the time, responded to an incident on Cates Bay Highway with reports of adults and children trapped in flood waters. Due to his quick response, he together with an Horry County fire rescue volunteer and Horry County police officer, rescued the adults and children, and moved them to safety.  As a reflection of his dedication, integrity, and service above self, he was honored as the City of Conway's Public Safety Employee of the Year; and

 

Whereas, as assistant fire chief, he participated in the creation and founding of the City of Conway Fire Training Facility. The training facility opened in August of 2023.  The addition of this facility allows fire personnel to train for incidents they will encounter on day-to-day calls. The fabricated storage containers can simulate scenarios with live-fire training in single-story homes or multi-story buildings. Before the construction of this facility, crews would have to travel to other neighboring departments during days off to complete the required training. The facility's location in the city allowed crews to complete the training while on their scheduled shift.  The purpose of live burn practice is to give firefighters real-world experience in fire suppression activities, including fire attack, fire coordination, and use of fire equipment; and

 

Whereas, Chief Perzan continues to hold a career of service, leadership, and a clear dedication to protecting the people of Conway. In this new role, he hopes to strengthen the department's service and readiness, while preparing for the needs of a growing city. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor Fire Chief Jason Stephen Perzan, of Horry County, for over twenty-five years of exemplary service to the people of Conway and congratulate him on being named the fire chief of the Conway Fire Department.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Fire Chief Jason Stephen Perzan.

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