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.