CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Elks Lodge hosted an awards banquet for Cullman County’s first responders Oct. 28.
Elks Lodge President Gwen Parker said the event was extremely meaningful on National First Responders Day. “Every day across this great country, hundreds of thousands of 911 calls are made requesting the assistance of our emergency services. And every day tens of thousands of dedicated first responders address those calls. For most, serving our communities in terms of need is not just a job, but a calling of devotion. A calling to help people in their time of need. The first responders who answer the call for help do so fearlessly and relentlessly, no matter how often they are summoned, no matter how grueling the work and no matter how severe the danger–they answer the call.”
Parker said they are indebted to the untold good that these first responders do every day.
“The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks believes in honoring those who serve on the front lines of our communities,” she said. “The Elks Medal of Valor and Service is one way we can thank our local responders for their commitment, sacrifice and service. Whether the individual was dashing from the back of an ambulance to provide emergency medical assistance, entering a burning building to save a life or calmly and professionally confronting a dangerous criminal, the sacrifice of these courageous men and women should not go unrecognized.”
These medals demonstrate that Elks in the community, acknowledge their service and sacrifice, Parker added.
“As Elks, we are proud of lifting our local communities through charitable actions and deeds,” she said. “Our motto is ‘Elks care -Elks share,’ and it is up to each of us to put our words into action by recognizing the heroism and service that our first responders demonstrate each and every day. The Elks Medal of Service is to recognize local first responders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.”
Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry said he wanted to personally thank the Cullman Elks Lodge for recognizing first responders and for the support they continue to show those who serve the community.
“We are blessed to live and work in a county that stands behind its first responders and appreciates the sacrifices they make every day,” he said. “I’m especially proud of the 14 deputies and investigators recognized from our office. These men work hard, serve with dedication and routinely go above and beyond the call of duty to protect the people of Cullman County. They represent our office well, and I’m honored to serve alongside them.”
Cullman Police Chief Joey Duncan said he appreciates the Cullman Elks Lodge for recognizing the first responders and the work they do for the community.
“It means a lot to see an organization take the time to honor those who answer the call when people need help,” he said. “Our first responders deal with difficult situations every day, and much of what they do happens without recognition. Events like this are a great way to show them that their service and sacrifices are appreciated. We’re proud of Sgt. Rob Long, Officer Matt Hollingsworth and Officer Aaron Brolsma for being among those recognized. They work hard to serve the people of Cullman. I’m proud of the work these officers do and the way they represent our department. I also appreciate District Attorney Champ Crocker for attending and helping present the awards. It’s encouraging to see our community come together to support the men and women who serve on the front lines. We’re grateful for all the first responders who work every day to keep our community safe.”
The Elks recognized several who have answered that call above and beyond.
Those receiving awards were selected by the leadership of the agencies they represent.
Battalion Chief Matt Wade from Cullman Fire Rescue recognized Engineer Austin Bolton.
Representing the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff-elect Chad Whaley recognized 14 officers and investigators, including Deputy Alexander Quick; Lieutenant Josh Wallace; Deputy Ty Livingston; Lieutenant Jesse Cummings; Deputy Dalton Brody; Deputy Samuel Rollo; Deputy Dawson Phillips; Investigators Kevin Bowers, Dylan Morton, Chayton Grimmett, Nelson Hernandez and Dustin Bentley; Lieutenant Jared Aaron; and Captain Phillip Harris.
The Cullman Police Department, represented by Duncan, recognized Sgt Rob Long, Officer Aaron Brolsma and Officer Matt Hollingsworth.
Cullman City Communications Assistant Director Taylor England recognized Holly Shelton.
“It was both a pleasure and an honor to be able to recognize these first responders,” Parker said. “More information on each one’s award nomination can be requested. Thank you to District Attorney Champ Crocker for attending and assisting with the awards.”
