RAF Mildenhall pays tribute to firefighter Carl Mills who died at Wroxham Fire Station in Norfolk on Boxing Day

A firefighter who dedicated 18 'outstanding' years to a Suffolk RAF base as a crew manager in the fire department has been remembered by his colleagues there.

Carl Mills, 58, was a whole-time firefighter at RAF Mildenhall, which is home to the United States Air Force’s 100th Air Refueling Wing. He also served at Wroxham Fire Station in Wroxham, Norfolk, as an on-call firefighter and it was there that he died on Boxing Day morning.

In a statement, RAF Mildenhall said it was with heavy hearts they shared the loss of Mr Mills, who was a highly-respected and valued colleague and friend in their 100th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) Fire Department.

He dedicated 18 outstanding years to RAF Mildenhall as a crew manager in the fire department, it said.

Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Robinson, 100th CES Fire Department fire chief, said: "Carl was a well-liked and respected member of our family at RAF Mildenhall.

"Carl continued to not only impart wisdom to others, but to lead from the front in everything and we all miss him greatly.”

During his time here, Mr Mills helped shape the careers of many firefighters, both civilian and military.

“Our heartfelt condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to Carl’s family, friends, and all members of our Team Mildenhall Fire Department. Carl may be gone, but he will not be forgotten,” said Col. Jason Herring, 100th Air Refueling Wing vice commander.

Mr Mills worked concurrently with the fire service at RAF Mildenhall and with Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service at Wroxham, but his primary employment was at Mildenhall.

In a Facebook post, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service described him as a popular and dedicated firefighter who loved serving the people of Norfolk and his local community.

He had served at Wroxham Fire Station as an on-call firefighter since joining the service in April 1984 and had been watch manager there for many years.

Over his more than 35 years of service, he responded to hundreds of calls including fires, water rescues and road traffic incidents.

Ceri Sumner, director of Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The thoughts of everyone in the fire service are with Carl’s family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly sad time.

“Carl was a dedicated firefighter, with more than three decades of service to the county, and he will be remembered fondly for his commitment and professionalism, particularly in his role as watch manager at Wroxham.”

As a mark of respect, flags at fire stations have been lowered across Norfolk.

Alongside Mr Mills' family, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service would like to thank all of those who tried to help Mr Mills on Boxing Day morning, including passers-by and members of the emergency services.

Mr Mills leaves a wife, daughter, son, his parents and elder brother. He was loved by all who knew him.

His family has asked for privacy at this very difficult time.