Duty doesn’t wait, and neither do Emanuel County’s firefighters.
Nearly as soon as this year’s annual Fire & Rescue Banquet began, tones dropped.
On a night meant to give them pause and celebrate their service, approximately 20 firefighters jumped into action. They immediately got up from their seats at the Varner 4-H Clubhouse, headed to their home stations to trade casual clothes for turnout gear, and raced to Nunez to tamp out a commercial lumber fire.
Their quick response kept property damage to a minimum and ensured no lives were lost.
Public Safety Coordinator Courtney Terwilliger said moments like this reflect the heart of Emanuel County’s volunteer force.
“When the call comes in, our firefighters don’t hesitate. They just get after it,” Terwilliger said. “That kind of selflessness is what defines this department and the people who serve in it, and I couldn’t be any prouder.”
Meanwhile, the banquet continued. Held January 29 at 7 PM, the evening recognized firefighters across Emanuel County for performance, leadership, and years of dedicated volunteer service.
Firefighter of the Year honors were presented across the county’s 12 response districts. Recipients are selected at the station level with each department determining its honoree either through a vote of its members or by selection from the chief. This year’s class included Dennis Kelly Sr. of Cross Green, Wesley Coleman of Canoochee, Marie Slater of Oak Park, Thomas Vautier of Adrian, Joey Amerson of Norristown, Mason Funderburk of Twin City, Matt Wiggins of Dellwood, Justin Moxley of Garfield, Kevin Sutton of Stillmore, Stacy Mills of Nunez, Justin Price of Summertown, and Kenton Landon of Red Oak.
The ceremony also highlighted firefighters reaching major service milestones, recognizing the longevity that continues to hold up Emanuel County Fire & Rescue. Chief Ralph Brown was honored for 35 years of service. James Turner and Rhonda Turner were recognized for 30 years, and Robert Coleman was honored for 25 years. BJ Grimes marked 20 years of service while Allen Farley and Troy Johnson both reached 15 years.
Ten-year service certificates were presented to Chief Charles Headrick, Danton Morris, Chief Dusty Holden, Chief Justin Johnson, Kenneth Odom, Chief Wesley Coleman, Allen McDaniel, Austin Grimes, Bill Hackle, Darin Griner, Gary Green, George Harrison, Joseph Earls, Justin Moxley, Kelvin Turner, Marcus Beckworth, Matthew Headrick, Michele Turner, Neil Clay, Payton Riner, Robert Stewart, Steven Johnson, Timmy Oliver, and Zachary Larrimore.
Christopher Garner was recognized for 5 years of service.
Fire Coordinator Foster Grimes oversees onboarding and coordinates training across the department. He credits this mix of veterans as one of the core strengths of the county’s fire service. Emanuel County welcomed 15 new firefighters in 2025 and 11 so far in 2026, adding fresh energy to the volunteer ranks.
“It’s always great to bring new folks into the department,” Grimes said, “but you’ve got to have experienced firefighters in your ranks to show them the ropes and help train them up. These men and women check those boxes.”
Reflecting on his milestone, Chief Ralph Brown said he appreciates the award.
“It meant a whole lot. I really enjoy serving our community and the surrounding areas. That’s why I’ve done it for so long,” Brown said. “I like to give back however I can. Knowing I can save lives and structures is my way of helping. God willing, I’ll keep doing it.”
Chief certificates were also presented to departmental leaders across all stations in Emanuel County, recognizing their ongoing role in maintaining operational readiness countywide. Honorees included Chief Andy Holden, Chief Kelvin Dailey, Chief William Nasworthy, Chief Ali Mims, Chief Joey Scruggs, Chief Payton Riner, Chief Jeremy Claxton, and Chief Darren McGee, along with the other chiefs already mentioned in this story.
The Emanuel County Board of Commissioners governs Emanuel County, focusing on legislative and administrative responsibilities. Comprised of representatives from five districts, the board oversees policies and programs that impact local development, budgeting, and public services. Commissioners work collectively to ensure fiscal responsibility and address community needs, collaborating with other county departments and agencies. They are committed to supporting economic growth, public safety, and community well-being across Emanuel County.
For more information about the commissioners and for the latest from the county government, visit 124 North Main Street in Swainsboro; call 478-237-3881; follow us on Facebook; or visit www.emanuelco-ga.gov.
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