Jim Gregory and Brian Hollen To Be Honored During the 18th Annual Friendly Way Day

BUCKHANNON, WV: The City of Buckhannon invites the community to the 18th annual Friendly Way Day celebration, which will take place on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Buckhannon Fire Department. This year, we honor retired Buckhannon Volunteer Firefighters Jim Gregory and Brian Hollen for their exemplary service and dedication to our city.

Jim Gregory served from 1989 to 2008, and Brian Hollen from 1994 to 2011. Each has contributed immeasurably to our community’s safety, well-being, and spirit. We welcome their friends, families, and all residents to join us in recognizing these two individuals’ positive impact as part of our shared “friendly way.”

As part of the ceremony, which coincides with our annual West Virginia Strawberry Festival, the City will permanently add Jim and Brian’s names to our “Red Wall” and “Buddy Bench” along Friendly Way, ensuring their legacies continue to inspire future generations.

About Friendly Way Day: In 2007, the Buckhannon City Council established Friendly Way Day to honor the late Carl R. “Bud” Bennett—also known as “Ole Friendly”—by dedicating the street in front of the fire department’s truck bay as Friendly Way. Each year since, we have recognized individuals whose public service reflects Bud’s spirit and kindness.

Past Honorees:
2007 – Bud Bennett
2008 – Harley Brown
2009 – Buddy Ray Zickefoose
2010 – Paul Mackey
2011 – Jack Ford
2012 – Larry Mackey
2013 – Jerry Wilfong
2014 – Wyatt Long
2015 – Dave Long
2016 – Kevin Goodwin
2017 – Charlie Shaffer
2018 – Paul Morrison
2019 – Joe Bennett
2021 – Steve Thacker
2022 – Steve Long
2023 – Vaden Queen
2024 – Joey Slaughter

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of service and community spirit that defines Buckhannon and the Buckhannon Fire Department.

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