Community Connect: James Marchant, Assistant Chief, Cedar Grove Volunteer Fire Department
By Savannah Logan
In every small town, there are individuals who go above and beyond to support their community. James Marchant, Volunteer Assistant Chief for the Cedar Grove Volunteer Fire Department, embodies this spirit. From his dedication to public safety to his strong faith and love for family, James’s story is one of service and love, which is reflected in his life, work, and values.
What inspired you to become a volunteer firefighter, and how did you come to serve as assistant chief at Cedar Grove Fire Department?
“I was inspired by the adults I grew up watching. I wanted to follow in their footsteps. As far as becoming assistant chief, I was asked to take on the role and proudly serve alongside Brian Logan, who does a great job as chief.”
Can you share a memorable moment or challenge you’ve faced during your time with the fire department?
“I really enjoyed the community day we had to honor Jacob Marchant for more than 40 years of continued service to the community.”
How does the Cedar Grove Fire Department contribute to the community beyond emergency response?
“The fire department has taken the initiative to do community cleanup. Over the last several years, we’ve had storm shelters installed to better serve our community in the event of severe weather.”
What do you believe are the most pressing needs for volunteer fire departments like Cedar Grove?
“I believe the two main needs of small volunteer fire departments like ours are funding and personnel. Maintaining equipment and getting younger people to join the department is difficult.”
What church do you and your family attend, and how long have you been members there?
“My family attends Ada Chapel Bible Methodist Church, and I’ve attended there since I was a child. We love our church and participate in various roles.”
How has your faith influenced your approach to serving the community?
“Believing that doing good for someone and helping others has been instilled in me from a young age. Philippians 2:3-4 says, ‘Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do.’”
Can you tell us about your family and their role in supporting your work as a volunteer firefighter?
“I’ve been married to my wife, Christina, for almost 15 years. She encourages me as a volunteer firefighter and helps occasionally with projects around the fire department. Both my kids love going to fire meetings with me and occasionally get to go on a call with me. My son can’t wait until he’s old enough to join the department!”
What values do you strive to instill in your family, particularly regarding service and community?
“Love others and help others when you can. Place God first in your life always.”
Do you have any favorite community traditions?
“A favorite tradition is the Marchant syrup making on the first Saturday of November each year. It’s a time when family and friends get together to help in a lifetime tradition of making ribbon cane syrup.”
What is your dream vacation with your family?
“Probably a trip to Ireland.”
What are some of your favorite pastimes or hobbies?
“I love to hunt and fish—pretty much anything outside that I can do with my family.”
How do you unwind and recharge after handling stressful situations?
“Going for a ride on my four-wheeler or spending time outside.”
What’s your favorite meal?
“My favorite meal is probably beef pot roast with mashed potatoes and gravy, followed by good banana pudding for dessert.”
If you could sit down and talk to anyone from history or the Bible, who would it be?
“From the Bible, it would have to be Jesus or Noah. From history, it would be George Washington or Nate Saint.”
Is there a passage of the Bible that particularly inspires you?
“Yes, Philippians 4:6-9:
‘Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus…’”
James Marchant’s commitment to his community, rooted in faith and family values, is a shining example of service and leadership. His contributions remind us of the importance of small-town heroes who dedicate themselves to the greater good.