Charles” Buck” Clough Jr.

On April 15, 2009, Chief Charles” Buck” Clough Jr. responded to a reported appliance fire. While driving a fire department pickup truck to the scene, a car pulled into his path, causing the truck to skid off the road and strike a tree. Chief Clough suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His final, split-second decision to swerve to avoid colliding with the other vehicle heroically prevented harm to others and protected both life and property. He was 41 years old. He served with the Sudlersville Volunteer Fire Company in Sudlersville, Maryland, for 26 years. 

Clough was born in Chestertown, Maryland, to Charles Clough Sr. and Beulah Clough. He was a graduate of Queen Anne’s County High School. He worked for the Maryland State Highway Administration for 21 years. He was also a farmer and owned Clough and Sons Mowing.  

At the time of his passing, he was serving his second term as Chief of the Sudlersville Fire Department. He had first held the position at just 23 years old – a true testament to his leadership and dedication at a young age. Clough began his career in 1983 at the age of 16 and over his 26 years of service he held numerous roles within the department, including Assistant Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, and as a member of the Board of Directors. He received many awards throughout his career, but he was especially proud of being named Firefighter of the Year. He was also a longtime member of the fire prevention committee and found great joy in teaching safety and fire prevention to children in local elementary schools. 

Clough married his high school sweetheart, Sandra, and together they had two sons, Shane and Chase. He enjoyed farming, participating in 4-H activities with his sons, hunting with family and friends, and being active in the fire company. His love for family, his dedication to his life of service, and his unwavering commitment to his fellow firefighters continues to guide and strengthen all who knew him. 

Fire Chief Charles “Buck” Clough Jr. is survived by his loving wife, Sandra, sons, Shane and Chase, and many cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Clough family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.