Activity at the Kilmarnock Volunteer Fire Department Firemen’s Festival grandstand took a solemn twist Friday, August 7, as Del. Hillary Pugh Kent (left) presented a resolution to the family of the late Robert Bernard “Buddy” Keyser Jr. The resolution, adopted by the Virginia General Assembly in February, recognizes Keyser’s dedication to family, friends and the community, including the KVFD and the carnival for more than 60 years. The resolution specifically notes: “For more than a half-century, Buddy Keyser was an active member of the Kilmarnock Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD), which he supported in various capacities over the years, including as an engineer, training officer, lieutenant, captain, assistant treasurer, treasurer, vice president, and president….Buddy Keyser’s passion for service led him to give generously of his time to the KVFD’s annual carnival fundraiser for more than 60 years, supporting a time-honored local tradition that is integral to the fire department’s success.” In 2025, Keyser was honored as the first recipient of the Robert B. Keyser Jr. Carnival Appreciation Award. He passed in October 2025. More carnival photos are in the print and digital editions of the Record this week. Photo by Robert Mason Jr.
