Bryan County Emergency Services Director Freddy Howell has been named 2014 Fire Chief of the Year by the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs.

He received the honor Thursday afternoon in Macon at an annual conference of firefighters.

Howell, who was clearly surprised, said he didn't even know he was in the running for the award. "I'm just shocked," he said.

Howell was nominated by two firefighters in his department -- neither of whom knew the other one had nominated Howell.

"I'm just humbled beyond what words can say," he said. "I'm humbled to be nominated for it, humbled to be presented it and humbled to be be among the people who've received this award. I thank those people who nominated me."

More to follow.