Fire Department Administration

The Kingsport Fire Department Chief Jerry DeBerry

Chief DeBerry’s Bio:

Chief DeBerry comes to Kingsport Fire with a diverse background in both operations, and in the field of special operations. Chief DeBerry is a graduate of the elite Georgia Smoke Diver program. He possesses a Master Degree in Organizational Leadership, and has earned the Chief Fire Officer designation through the Center Public Safety Excellence.

A letter from the Chief, reflecting on 2025:

As Fire Chief of the Kingsport Fire Department, I am proud to reflect on the progress and accomplishments we achieved throughout 2025. This past year has been one of meaningful change, focused growth, and a renewed commitment to the citizens we serve.

Our department has continued to evolve in ways that strengthen both our operational effectiveness and our connection to the community. Through strategic staffing adjustments, enhanced training initiatives, and a continued emphasis on safety and accountability, we have positioned ourselves to meet the increasing demands of a growing and dynamic city. Our personnel have demonstrated unwavering dedication, professionalism, and resilience—qualities that define the very foundation of the fire service.

In 2025, we made significant strides in advancing our mission of Service Excellence. From emergency response improvements to customer-focused interactions, our goal has remained clear: to provide the highest level of service to every citizen, every time. We have also placed a strong emphasis on enhancing community engagement, recognizing that building trust and relationships is just as important as emergency response. Whether through public events, outreach programs, or partnerships, we are committed to being visible, approachable, and responsive.

Investing in our people remains a top priority. Our focus on professional development has expanded training opportunities at all levels, ensuring our firefighters are prepared, confident, and capable in an ever-changing environment. Alongside this, we have strengthened our health and wellness programs, understanding that a healthy workforce is essential to sustaining long-term success and readiness.

Prevention continues to be a cornerstone of our efforts. Through expanded fire prevention and public education initiatives, we are working proactively to reduce risk, protect property, and save lives before emergencies occur. This community-based approach reinforces our belief that the fire department’s role extends far beyond emergency response.

Looking ahead, our vision centers on creating sustainability—not only in our operations and in resources, but also in our people, our partnerships, and our long-term planning. We are committed to building a fire department that is adaptable, forward thinking, and prepared to meet the needs of future generations.

At the heart of this vision is a continued focus on community-based fire service. We recognize that our success is measured not only by our response times or operational metrics, but by the trust and confidence placed in us by the citizens of Kingsport.

I am incredibly proud of the men and women of the Kingsport Fire Department and grateful for the support of our city leadership and community. Together, we will continue to move forward—stronger, more connected, and committed to excellence.

Respectfully,
Chief Jerry DeBerry
Fire Chief
Kingsport Fire Department

Chief Jerry DeBerry

Deputy Chief Terry Arnold

Deputy Chief Terry Arnold Bio:

Terry L. Arnold is a 27-year veteran of the Kingsport Fire Department and currently serves as Deputy Chief, overseeing the department’s Operations Division. With more than 31 years of experience in the fire service, Chief Arnold has built his career around fire service operations, emergency medical services, emergency management, and public safety leadership. Chief Arnold began his career with the Kingsport Fire Department in 1999 as a Firefighter Trainee and has steadily progressed through the ranks into his current executive leadership position. Throughout his career, he has served in numerous operational and leadership roles, including Hazardous Materials Team Coordinator and Chairman of the Medical Operations Committee. These assignments provided him with extensive experience in emergency response, special operations, personnel development, and interagency coordination As Deputy Chief of Operations, Chief Arnold is responsible for overseeing the daily operational activities of the Kingsport Fire Department. His responsibilities include ensuring operational readiness, maintaining compliance with applicable safety standards, coordinating personnel and resources, supporting training and professional development, and assisting with the strategic planning and future direction of the department. He places a strong emphasis on firefighter safety, operational effectiveness, accountability, and ensuring personnel have the training, equipment, and resources necessary to serve the community at the highest level. Chief Arnold attended Northeast State Community College, where he completed his Paramedic education. He holds IFSAC Fire Officer IV certification and has continued his professional development through the National Fire Academy, completing advanced coursework in Command and Control and Hazardous Materials. Throughout his career, Chief Arnold has remained passionate about leadership and the continued advancement of the fire service. He believes effective leadership requires a commitment to developing people, maintaining operational excellence, building strong partnerships, and continually preparing an organization for the challenges of tomorrow. His career reflects a longstanding dedication to protecting the community, supporting firefighters, and strengthening the Kingsport Fire Department through training, strategic planning, and professional leadership.

Deputy Chief Terry Arnold