Longest Volunteer

Part of belonging to a rural community like Jasper County is knowing that there are many things that the big cities take for granted; for example, a call to 911 here will most probably be met with volunteers. Albeit volunteers that are trained and ready, but nonetheless someone who was also just eating dinner with his/her family too.

That’s just an accepted part of country living; but also a dedication that should be celebrated and appreciated.

An example of such dedication for the past 25 years to this county is Alvin McMichael. Alvin, a life-long Jasper citizen has served countless hours through training and responses for fires, accidents, and medical emergencies. Alvin currently serves as Battalion Chief for county Station 2 in Shady Dale as well as Fire Chief for city of Shady Dale’s Fire Department where he lives with his sweet wife Nancy and family. Alvin has worked for Allison’s Cabinets in Putnum County for 18 years as a cabinet builder.

Known for his infectious smile, easy-going personality, and willingness to do any task; his presence is invaluable on any scene. Add to that his strength, he is one of our greatest assets. On more than one occasion he’s been able to hand-break the hose couplings when the rest of us are using spanner wrenches.

He is trained in High & Low Angle Rope Rescue, First Responder, and is a certifiable jack of all trades. The knowledge he has to be able to pass onto the newer generation of volunteers is something you just can’t learn from a textbook.

As he says, “I’m just a simple man who goes out and just does what needs to get done to get the job done.” Thank you Alvin McMichael for your unwavering time and dedication to our citizens!!

As a reminder, www.tinyurl.com/JCFRcpr is available to sign up for CPR classes as well as reserve a time for a Child Seat safety check or install. Bookmark the site as other classes will be added soon!

Are you CPR trained yet? We’re on our way to having Jasper County 100% CPR trained! Stay safe Jasper!