04/24/2026
2025 VALOR AWARD WINNER: The Texas Fire Chiefs Association proudly awards the 2025 Medal of Valor to Fire Chief Michael E. Phillips of the Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department. This honor recognizes his extraordinary courage and his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
On July 5, 2025, during the devastating Central Texas floods, Chief Phillips was responding to calls for help when his emergency vehicle was swept away by rapidly rising floodwaters. He was serving his community in its time of greatest need, and he did not return.
Chief Phillips dedicated more than 30 years to the fire service. He led with quiet strength, steady commitment, and an unwavering sense of duty. His loss is felt deeply within his department, across the fire service, and throughout the community he served.
The Medal of Valor recognizes acts of extraordinary courage and sacrifice. Chief Phillips’ actions on that day reflect the very best of the fire service. He placed others before himself without hesitation.
We honor his service. We honor his sacrifice. We honor his legacy.