With profound sorrow, the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue Program announces the line-of-duty death of Master Technician Raul Perla on Thursday, March 5, 2026, succumbing to occupational cancer. A dedicated 20-year member of the team, Raul’s life was defined by selfless service, courage, and global humanitarian work.

During his career, Raul deployed to 12 domestic and international disasters, responding to crises in Haiti, Japan, Peru, Panama, and beyond. He became internationally recognized as a US&R instructor and a key member of the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team, leading countless simulated disaster exercises worldwide. Known affectionately across the Americas as “Big Papi,” Raul’s expertise and leadership shaped generations of first responders.

Even after retiring from the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in December 2023, Raul’s influence endured. Colleagues remember him as an exceptional leader, mentor, and friend, always guided by his life motto: “Others Before Self.” Whether in the field, the classroom, or training exercises, he prioritized helping others, often putting the needs of the community and his team above his own.

Raul’s legacy reaches far beyond his professional accomplishments. His dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to service touched countless lives—family, friends, colleagues, and communities around the world. His loss is deeply felt not only by those in Fairfax County but by the global search and rescue community that revered him.

The men and women of the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue Program extend their deepest condolences to Master Technician Perla’s wife, Jill, his daughters, Summer and Sage, and to all family, friends, and loved ones who were touched by his life. While his presence will be sorely missed, Raul’s legacy of courage, mentorship, and selflessness will continue to inspire future generations of first responders.