On Tuesday, local first responders were honored for their efforts to protect and serve the people of Troup County during the annual Valor Awards at Del’avant Event Center. 

The awards give the community a chance to recognize first responders who help citizens through some of the hardest days those citizens will ever face. 

The men and women honored on Tuesday were the people who answer emergency calls, provide life saving medical assistance and stand between victims and the ones who would do harm. 

In many cases, those first responders are the reason why people in our community are alive today. 

Deputies Kindre Scott and Kyle Kirkland’s rapid response to an accident where a driver had a seizure and struck a tree, likely saved that driver’s life.

Likewise Lt. James Ormsby, Sgt. Paul Welsh and Firefighter Quinton Brown’s medical assistance to a baby who was not breathing meant that child got to go home.

These and other actions touched the lives and hearts of our community, so to all of those recognized with Valor Awards and to those who commit themselves to the safety of our community everyday, thank you.  

Thank you for stepping forward to protect our community.