Dedication to Duty | Fred Hawkins
In this episode, Fred Hawkins—retired firefighter, retired law enforcement officer, and Senior Drum Major for Santa Fe and the State of New Mexico—breaks down what it really means to represent the fallen.
With over two decades in the fire service and 26 years in law enforcement, Fred has seen service from every angle. But it’s his work in honor guard and Pipes & Drums that carries a different kind of weight—where precision, discipline, and tradition aren’t just expected… they’re demanded.
This conversation goes beyond ceremony. It’s about the pressure of public service, the responsibility of honoring line-of-duty deaths, and why there are no second chances when it matters most.
If you’ve ever questioned what service really means—or what it costs over time—this episode answers it.
Drum Major | Retired Firefighter | Retired Law Enforcement
Fred Hawkins has built a career defined by service, discipline, and a commitment to honoring others at the highest standard.
He served 20 years with the Santa Fe Fire Department and spent 26 years as a Special Deputy assigned to training and tactical operations with the Sheriff’s Department—operating across both fire service and law enforcement with a focus on performance, accountability, and leadership.
Beyond operational service, Fred has dedicated much of his career to the honor guard and Pipes & Drums community, where precision and representation carry a different kind of weight. He is a graduate of the British Columbia Regimental Drum Major Course and currently serves as a Senior Drum Major for the State of New Mexico, as well as Drum Major for the Santa Fe Firefighters Pipes & Drums.
A retired member of the International Association of Fire Fighters and a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Fred continues to mentor and lead within the ceremonial and service communities—focused on maintaining standards, preserving tradition, and ensuring those who served are represented the right way.