BLUFFTON, S.C. (October 12, 2026) — Bluffton Township Fire District Battalion Chief Vernon Edenfield will retire this month after 30 years of service in the fire service, closing a career that has included emergency medical service, firefighter training, company-level leadership and nearly two decades as a battalion chief.
Edenfield began his fire service career in Texas, earning his EMT-Basic and Firefighter I certifications in July 1995. After moving to South Carolina, he earned his South Carolina EMT-Basic certification in 1997, followed by Firefighter I and Firefighter II certifications.
He continued advancing his medical and leadership training throughout his career, earning National Registry paramedic certification in 1999, South Carolina Fire Officer I certification in 2001, Fire Instructor I certification in 2002 and Fire Officer II certification in 2006.
Edenfield was promoted to Captain with Bluffton Township Fire District on Dec. 16, 2004, and later promoted to Battalion Chief on May 3, 2008.
During his years as a line Captain, Edenfield also played a role in medical training and recertification efforts for district personnel, helping maintain the emergency medical skills firefighters rely on when responding to the community’s calls for service.
His career also included work with a disaster canine named Rudy, who regularly accompanied Edenfield to the fire station during the mid-2000s.
The Fire District will honor Edenfield with a retirement celebration Friday, Oct. 30, at 10 a.m. at BTFD Station 38, 260 Raider Drive in Bluffton.
Members of the community, current and former colleagues, friends and others who have served alongside Edenfield during his career are invited to attend.
“Chief Edenfield’s career reflects a tremendous commitment to professional growth, leadership and service,” Fire Chief David Hindman said. “For 30 years, he has invested in this organization, the firefighters around him and the community we serve. We are grateful for everything he has contributed and wish him the very best in retirement.”
Light refreshments will be provided. No RSVP is required.