It is the first Monday of June, which means we are recognizing another valued member of our team during #MeetUsMonthly.  

Fire Captain Royce “Mitch” Boyette is nearing 20 years of service with the Clayton Fire Department. Starting as a part-time employee in 2006 and transitioning to a full-time employee in 2009, he oversees crews and makes sure the response to incidents goes smoothly. 

Born in the Town of Clayton, Boyette’s interest in fire service dates back to high school. Some friends from Johnston Christian Academy in Smithfield, North Carolina, who were firemen, ultimately prompt Boyette to jumpstart his career path. He then proceeds to enroll in classes at Johnston Community College, obtain an associate degree from Wilson Community, and earn a bachelor’s degree from Fayetteville State University.  

After spending a year with Archer Lodge Fire Department in 2005, Boyette returns to the place that he has called home for many years. “We have a good set of employees here. We joke and play with each other, but whenever the going gets tough, everybody has everybody’s back.” 

He wants the community to know how much time, thought, and energy go into protecting residents every day. “It’s non-stop. (You) get up anytime at night and have to go. People just don’t think about that until they dial 911 and want to know why you aren’t there right now.” 

While laughing, Boyette admits he and his wife don’t stop much at home either, especially raising two young daughters. They also grow corn, beans, wheat, and oats on their farm and nurture animals, like cows and sheep.