UPDATED 2:07 pm Greeleyville Hwy remains shut down at this time. South Carolina Highway Patrol will remain on scene. All Clarendon Fire Rescue units are clear.
Clarendon County Fire Rescue units are on scene of a vehicle accident on Greeleyville Hwy near Bay Shadow Rd. The roadway is shut down at this time. Please use an alternate route.
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Yesterday, we had the honor of celebrating the retirement of Captain Michael Ard after an incredible 32 years of dedicated service to our department and community.
Captain Ard served as the head of our Maintenance Division, a role he carried out with skill, pride, and attention to detail. But beyond the title, he was a firefighter and EMT at heart. He loved every part of the job — the calls, our members, the challenges, and most of all, serving others.
Since being in this role, he has helped keep our equipment ready, our stations running, and our crews supported — often behind the scenes, never seeking recognition, just doing what needed to be done. His impact on this department is lasting and immeasurable.
During the retirement luncheon, members shared stories that reflected exactly who Captain Ard has always been: dependable, hardworking, humble, and deeply committed to the people around him. Time and again, they spoke of his steady presence, his willingness to help anyone at any time, and the genuine heart he brought to this profession every single day.
Captain Ard shared a powerful story about how he first realized this was the path he was meant to follow. Before becoming a firefighter, he attended a church fire with a family member. After the fire was out, nearly everything had been destroyed — yet several Bibles remained. He was given permission to keep one, a moment that left a lasting impression on him. He spoke about how, at the time, he felt there was a higher presence guiding him, even though he didn’t fully understand it then. Looking back now, he believes that experience helped shape his calling to serve, protect, and stand beside people on what is often the worst day of their lives.
While we are excited for the next chapter in his life, there is no doubt he will be greatly missed — not just for what he did, but for who he is.
Thank you, Captain Ard, for 32 years of loyalty, leadership, and service. You have definitely left this department better than you found it.
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February is recognized as American Heart Month, a time to remind people how important heart health is and to share information about preventing heart disease. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for both men and women. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death among active-duty firefighters. Conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke are often linked to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, poor diet, and obesity.
Many heart-related illnesses can be prevented or managed through regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco use, and routine medical screenings. Knowing the warning signs of heart attack and stroke and seeking early medical care can also improve outcomes.
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