Joe Long
President
Joe Long started his career in 1976 as a junior squad member of the Davis Corner Volunteer Fire Department. He then served two years as a Crash Fire/Rescue Specialist at the Norfolk International Airport before starting his career with the Virginia Beach Fire Department in 1980, where he is retired from the Fire Marshal’s Office as an Assistant Fire Marshal. Joe’s experiences as a First Responder aided in the realization and forming of this vital service for all of our First Responders, and has taken on the role of President for Vigilant Watch, Inc.
Kim Sandlin
Treasurer
Kim Sandlin had been involved for the 14 years in every aspect of her husband Wayne’s career from 1996 through his retirement in 2009. She stood firm and strong through his fight with cancer, recovery and in her loyalty to the members of the Virginia Beach Fire Department and their families. Her dogged determination as Treasurer of Vigilant Watch, Inc. and the countless hours given in the service of our first responders has been a vital first step in the founding of this organization.
Joe Barakey
Vice President of Expanding Operations
Joe Barakey started his professional fire career in Portsmouth Virginia in 1999. He got hired in the Virginia Beach Fire Department in 2001 and currently is still working in the VBFD assigned to Engine 2 in Haygood. He worked with Bill “Duke” Lee (line of duty death) at the Ocean Front Station and saw firsthand the devastating effects of how cancer affects public safety personnel and their families.
Carol Barber
Executive Board & Secretary
In 2008, Carol Barber saw first hand the true meaning of Fire Department Brotherhood when her husband, a 30 year Virginia Beach Firefighter, Carl “Alan” Barber was diagnosed with lung cancer. As the Vigilant Watch, Inc. non-profit organization began to form, she knew she wanted to be a part of it. A few months after Alan’s passing in November 2008, Carol was asked to become part of the Executive Board and Secretary for Vigilant Watch, Inc. Without hesitation, she chose to accept the position knowing this organization will help make a difference in other First Responder’s lives.
Jeff Floyd
Vice President of Current Operations
Jeff Floyd joined the Ocean Park Volunteer Fire Dept. and Rescue Squad in September 1972. He spent his entire career in fire suppression, beginning his career with the Virginia Beach Fire Dept. in September 1975 and retiring March 2004. He has been associated with Vigilant Watch for the past 11 years, working “behind the scenes” on a majority of their fundraisers. He has dedicated his life to helping others in their time of need and is proud to step up to a Vice President position in Vigilant Watch.