By FireRescue1 Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former Fairfax County, Va., Fire Chief Glenn Gaines has been named as the new deputy assistant administrator for the USFA.

Chief Gaines has spent the past eight years as a principal architect and manager of both the Assistance to Firefighters and SAFER grant programs.

"Chief Gaines brings to his new position the breadth and experience at all levels of government, including his service to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which this nation and FEMA needs to further ensure a fire safe nation," Acting FEMA Administrator Nancy Ward said.

Chief Glenn Gaines started as a volunteer firefighter and fire officer and rose through the various ranks until finally serving as fire chief of a metropolitan community serving a population of more than 1 million people.

He has served in key roles in the areas of training, prevention and operations, as well as overseeing a nationally recognized USAR team.

The appointment has been welcomed by various groups, including the NVFC.

"He is a respected advocate for the volunteer and is uniquely suited to take on this important role," NVFC Chairman Philip C. Stittleburg said.