Firefighter Killed in WV Arson Fire was Decorated Veteran

Officials have identified the West Virginia Air National Guard firefighter who was killed Dec. 27 in a Berkeley County arson fire.

Logan Young, 30, joined the Air National Guard in 2018 and was employed full time at the 167th Airlift Wing as a Military Authority Fire Fighter.

In 2011 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served on active duty in the security forces career field before he transitioned into the Air National Guard. Young was a combat veteran who was deployed to the Middle East in 2014, according to a statement released by the 167th Airlift Wing.

He was the recipient of numerous awards and decorations, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Service Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal.

"His fellow firefighters described him as a quiet professional with a great heart who loved to help people and serve his country," said Col. Marty Timko, commander of the 167th Airlift Wing.

“This is an extremely sad day for West Virginia, especially two days after Christmas,” said Governor Jim Justice in the statement. “I ask all West Virginians to join Cathy and I in praying for Logan Young’s family and the entire West Virginia National Guard family. Logan stepped up to defend our country and protect our freedoms, and served as a first responder here at home. We owe everything we have to brave men and women like him. We will do everything we can to provide support to his family and will never forget his service and sacrifice to this great State and to our great Country.” 

He leaves behind his mother, father, brother and fiancée. At a press conference Monday morning, Gov. Justice said that Young and his fiancée were expecting a baby.

Young responded along on mutual aid with the 167th Airlift Wing Fire Department Sunday morning. The departments responds to between 100 and 150 mutual aid calls annually in the community.

"On behalf of the entire West Virginia National Guard, Amy and I extended our deepest sympathies to Logan's family and friends during this difficult time," said Maj. Gen. James Hoyer, West Virginia Adjutant General. "To lose such a talented and dedicated young Airman is truly a tragedy. Logan was a hero in every sense of the word and lived out the Air Force values of service before self in all that he did, which was on full display at the time of his passing. His service to his community as a first responder and member of the Guard will always be remembered."

Yesterday, the State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the cause of the fire to be arson. They are continuing to investigate the fire with help with the State Police.