A longtime employee of the Fort Smith Fire Department has been named chief, according to the City of Fort Smith.
After nearly 27 years of climbing the ranks at the fire department, assistant fire chief Darrell Clark will now serve as chief starting on Nov. 10.
“I am honored to be entrusted with leading our department into the future. The greatness of the Fort Smith Fire Department comes from the brave men and women who have served in the past and continue to serve today,” Clark said.
Clark will replace Boyd Waters, who was serving as head of the FSFD for two years before his retirement on Oct. 31, 2025. Waters worked for the department for 25 years as a driver, captain, battalion chief, assistant chief, and finally chief in 2023.
“Without the other firefighters on the job, I wouldnโt have been able to accomplish anything; being a firefighter takes every one of us. At the end of the day, I just hope I did my part and left it better than I found it,” Waters said.
Over a week after Waters’ retirement announcement, Clark was promoted to chief.
“Iโve had the privilege of working alongside many incredible leaders who have shaped my life and career,” Clark said. “My predecessor, Chief Waters, offered me valuable advice that Iโll carry forward: ‘This is an amazing department. Prepare the next generation of leaders and leave the department better than you found it, and youโve done a good job.'”
Clark had been serving as assistant fire chief since April 2023. During this time, the city said Clark exhibited the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for his new role.
