Throughout the years, Swainsboro has seen its fair share of heroes who make it their mission to give back to others. For Lieutenant Colby Martin, firefighting isn’t just a job. It’s a way to give back to the community he’s always called home.
Born and raised in Swainsboro, Martin’s interest in the fire service started at a young age during a school visit from local firefighters.
“One thing I remember when I was in elementary school was the smokehouse they brought out,” Martin said. “That’s what really sparked my interest.”
Although he originally planned to pursue a career in law enforcement after high school, that path didn’t work out. Instead, Martin found himself returning to that childhood inspiration.
“I came by the fire department, grabbed an application, and it took off from there,” he said.
Now a lieutenant with the Swainsboro Fire Department, Martin says the reality of the job is often misunderstood. While some assume firefighters spend much of their time resting at the station, he says the busiest hours come when most people are asleep.
“Probably the biggest misconception is that we get to sleep on the job,” Martin said. “About 89 to 90 percent of our call volume happens between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.”
That overnight demand can mean long shifts without rest.
“Just because we have bedrooms and recliners doesn’t mean we’re here sleeping all the time,” he said. “Most of our calls happen late at night while everyone else is asleep.
Even with the challenges, Martin says the most rewarding part of the job brings him back to where his interest first began, working with the community, especially children.
“Getting to go to the schools and see the kids excited to see the trucks, that’s probably the most rewarding part,” he said. “It’s about sparking that interest in the younger generation.”
Serving as a firefighter in his hometown adds another layer of meaning. For Martin, it’s about helping the people he grew up with and continuing the legacy of a community he values.
“I’ve always lived here. I’ve always loved this town and what it stands for,” he said. “Getting to help the people I grew up around, that’s probably the best reward of the job.”
For those considering a career in firefighting, Martin says it takes more than physical strength.
“Be prepared for the mental and physical aspects of the job,” he said. “Sometimes we don’t sleep, so you’ve got to have the fortitude to push past the limits you think you have and go beyond that to help your neighbor.”
From a childhood demonstration to a leadership role in the department, Martin’s story reflects a full-circle journey. One rooted in service, resilience, and community.
