Optimist Club names officers, firefighters of year

Published 1:00 am Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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As a part of its Respect for Law program, the Optimist Club of LaGrange recently recognized two police officers — one from the City of LaGrange police department and one from the Troup County Sheriff’s Office — and two firefighters — one from the LaGrange Fire Department and one from Troup County Fire Department — as law enforcement officers and firefighters of the year, according to Hill Daniel, who oversees social media for the Optimist Club of LaGrange.

The City of LaGrange first responders were recognized on June 7, and the Troup County first responders were recognized on June 14. Both events took place at the Mike Daniel Recreation Center, where Hilliard said the club meets every Monday.

The City of LaGrange law enforcement officer of the year was Corporal Robert “Robbie” Hall.

“It was an honor and a privilege to recommend Corporal Robert Hall, ‘Robbie,” for his dedication to many aspects of his work. Robbie is very knowledgeable, selfless, dependable and the City of LaGrange, the police department and our shift are extremely lucky to have him. We look forward to many more years of service from Robbie,” Sgt. Rogelio Perez said.

Hall is married to his wife, Tina and has two daughters, Halie and Kaitelyn.

Capt. Robert “Huck” Huckleberry was chosen as the Troup County sheriff officer of the year.

“Huck is currently overseeing the government center and has been working with the sheriff’s office for 39 years. He has inspired many people during his time with the department to also become sheriff’s deputies. When the government center was built, Huck was key to making sure the operations ran smoothly. He is [dedicated] to making sure that all of the deputies in the government center meet the requirements they need to serve the public in our community,” said Major Keith Flory.

The City of LaGrange firefighter of the year was Zack Domantay.

“He holds himself to a high standard with his physical fitness. He not only is able to push and motivate himself, he does it to other firefighters as well. He is truly a great member and asset to this department,” said Sgt. Michette Moon.

Domantay was presented with his award by Chief John Brant, Deputy Chief Willie Bradfield and Moon.

Andreas Harrilson was chosen as the Troup County Firefighter of the Year.

According to Chief John Ekaitis, Harrilson was chosen by a panel within the Troup County Fire Department consisting of two firefighters, the training captain and the deputy chief.

Harrilson is married to Jessica Harrilson and has two children. He’s been with the Troup County Fire Department for 17 years. Battalion Chief Norman Robinson called him “self-motivated and extremely dependable.”

Optimist International, of which the Optimist Club of LaGrange is a member, aims to bring out the best in youth, communities and themselves, according to their website. One of its many purposes is to inspire respect for the law.