The Bloom selects Former NFL WR and firefighter as Firefighters’ Marshal

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival announced Rashard Higgins, former NFL WR and firefighter, as the Firefighters’ Marshal on Wednesday.

During the announcement, Festival President Jeremy Luttrell said, “Rashard’s journey is a powerful example of purpose beyond the game. His commitment to service and community makes him an outstanding choice to serve as Firefighters’ Marshall during our 99th Festival.”

Higgins is a native of Dallas, Texas and played collegiately at Colorado State where he earned All American honors and was a finalist for the Biletnikoff award.

During his 2014 season, he led all of college football in receiving yards and touchdowns.

Higgins was selected in the fifth round of the NFL draft by the Cleveland Browns where he spent the next six seasons.

His best season came during the Browns 2020 playoff run where he connected with Baker Mayfield for nearly 600 yards and four touchdowns.

During the offseason, he began to pursue firefighter training and in September of 2025 he announced that he had officially joined the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department.

Visitors to the festival will see Higgins leading the Firefighters Parade and appear at events like the Fire Truck Rodeo, Coronation of Queen Shenandoah, the First Responders Recognition Reception, Sports Breakfast, and Grand Feature parade.

For more information on Rashard Higgins Apple Blossom appearance, click here.

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FCFR announces Line-of-Duty Death of Deputy Chief Chester Lauck

frederick county fire marshal's office

Frederick County Fire and Rescue announced the news of the Line-of-Duty Death of Deputy Chief Chester T. Lauck.

Chief Lauck suffered a cardiac event at his home on the early hours of Saturday morning after engaging in firefighting operations on a wildfire on Back Creek Road in Gore.

He passed away at 8:09 am Sunday morning at Winchester Medical Center surrounded by family and friends.

Due to the circumstances surrounding his death, his passing is regarded as a Line-Of-Duty Death with all associated honors and recognition.

Chief Lauck selflessly served the Round Hill community for 14 years in a variety of roles.

He also served as a Patrolman in the Virginia Department of Forestry starting in 1984.

He also held a variety of positions including Captain and Battalion Chief  during his 22 year career with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Fire and Rescue Department before retiring in 2007.

Lauck is also a veteran of the National Guard after serving in the 167th Airlift Wing Air National Guard as an Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighter.

His body was transported to Omps Funeral Home on Monday around noon with a full display of support from first responders.

Visitation and funeral arrangements are being planned to honor the service and memory of Chief Lauck.

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