North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey presented the Order of the Guardian Award to two Carteret County fire service professionals on May 14. Eddie Lewis, Carteret County Fire Marshal, and Steve Gould, Carteret County Deputy Fire Marshal, were recognized during a ceremony at their department for their long-standing dedication to public safety.
The award is given to individuals with over 40 years of service in areas regulated by the North Carolina Department of Insurance. The recognition highlights the importance of experienced leadership in emergency response and community protection.
Lewis and Gould have a combined total of 100 years serving in fire prevention, investigations, inspections, and emergency response. Both have worked closely with local departments and state agencies throughout their careers. “Eddie Lewis and Steve Gould have spent their careers serving and protecting the people of Carteret County and communities across North Carolina. Their combined 100 years of service shows a strong commitment to public safety, and this recognition is well deserved,” said William Matthias, Carteret County Emergency Services Director.
Lewis began his career in 1980 at Atlantic Beach Fire Department before joining the Federal Fire Service in 1982. He retired as Assistant Fire Chief in 2010 but continued his work as part-time then full-time county fire marshal from 2000 onward. He holds certifications as a North Carolina Certified Fire Investigator and NC Inspector Level III.
Gould started his fire service journey with Newport Fire Department in 1972 where he served until 2005 including time as chief. He joined the Federal Fire Service in 1986 before retiring as Assistant Fire Chief in 2010. Since then he has served first part-time then full-time as deputy county fire marshal beginning in 2011.
The Order of the Guardian Award remains one of NCDOI’s highest honors for those dedicating decades to public safety roles such as fire rescue or law enforcement.
