Shawn Barry: A Life of Service and Innovation | Wilmington News

Wilmington News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 1, 2026 · 1m

Shawn J. Barry, a tireless public servant who died at 56, left an indelible mark on emergency services—from law enforcement and DUI programs to pioneering drone rescue operations. A master’s degree in emergency management led him to shape critical safety protocols still in use today. After retiring to Oak Island, North Carolina, he became Chief Drone Pilot for the local fire department, revolutionizing aerial rescue with a viral water-saving drone save and global drone policy influence. His legacy endures through a scholarship supporting future first responders, honoring a life defined by…