EMS/Training Division

Battalion Chief Dusty Underwood

Phillip W. Underwood (Dusty) entered the Fire Service in 1971 has a fire recruit with Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service. He retired after almost 34 years and served in several positions including firefighter, paramedic, company officer and battalion chief. He served as the Chief of Training and also served as the Chief of Fire and EMS at Birmingham International Airport. 

In 2005, Dusty retired from Birmingham Fire and was appointed as the Fire Chief of Huntsville Fire and Rescue Service.  While serving as the Fire Chief he was instrumental in starting EMS within the Department as well as improving operations, equipment and facilities. 

In 2007, he left Huntsville Fire and Rescue and returned to his home town and was hired by Center Point Fire District. He is currently serving as the Battalion Chief of EMS/Training and is also responsible for the volunteer program.

Dusty has an Associate Degree in Fire Science and Emergency Medical Technology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Allied Health Science.  He has numerous Fire and EMS Certifications including certifications in Special Operations and WMD.  

Dusty has had an extensive military career and joined the 20th Special Forces Group of the Alabama National Guard in 1970 and retired in 2010 with over 40 years of service.  He has over five years of active duty service and is a veteran of Operation Uphold Democracy and Desert Storm.   He was an enlisted soldier and was promoted to Sergeant First Class before going to OCS. He has received numbers awards and decorations and is qualified in Infantry, Special Forces and is a Master Parachutist.  He has trained in several areas including Special Operations Medicine where he has utilized these skills among others in several countries.  He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. 

As the EMS/Training Officer, Dusty’s job is to provide the best training, equipment and resources for our firefighters to perform their job.