Midway Fire Rescue announces hire of new Fire Marshal!

Midway Fire Rescue is pleased to welcome and announce Mark Nugent, a veteran first responder with more than 40 years of experience in the fire service and emergency management, will join the department as its new Fire Marshal and Division Chief of Fire and Life Safety.

A resident of Murrells Inlet, Nugent was most recently employed as Public Information and Education Officer for Horry County Fire Rescue. Prior to that, he retired as Battalion Chief for Chesterfield County Fire and EMS in Virginia. In his 40-plus-year career, he has also served in roles including emergency services coordinator, deputy fire marshal and director of community relations.

He has a Master of Public Administration degree, with an emphasis on Emergency Services, from Columbia Southern University. He also holds degrees in fire science, EMS management and organizational management and development.

Additionally, he is a nationally recognized speaker and a longtime contributor to Firehouse Magazine.

“We’re very lucky to have someone with his extensive experience in all aspects of fire prevention joining our department,” said Midway Chief Doug Eggiman. “He already has a great reputation in the community. On top of that, he has an infectious personality and a strong history of team building, project management and educational program development. I believe he will be a great addition to our team.”

Chief Nugent will fill the vacancy left by longtime Fire Marshal Todd Blomdahl, who retired last winter after more than 20 years with the department. Chief Nugent’s first day on the job will be July 23.