Judge Harmon and Mayor Collins welcomed all the Clay County first responders in appreciation for their hard work and dedication with a First Responders Appreciation Meal.
Judge Harmon stated, “In the last few weeks, Clay County has had two disasters that have forced evacuations of our citizens. The pipeline fire near Gabbards Fork was handled with the upmost care and resolved by our skillful first responders in the safest way possible. Laurel Creek Nursing Home residents were relocated during this situation and returned smoothly after the threat was over. A strong storm also ripped through an apartment complex, which left some citizens without a home. The first responders moved quickly and handled the situation smoothly, relocating families with agency support from the Red Cross, churches and other citizens of Clay County. Daniel Boone Action Council provided for the hotel stays for citizens until other housing could be arranged. The work of our first responders does not go unseen and is very appreciated. The Fiscal Court, myself, and Mayor Collins wanted to say thank you for those who are on the front line when disasters occur.”
The guest speaker for the evening was Tony L. Watson, Fire Chief, of the Pigeon Forge Fire Department, he shared about the 2016 fires that swept through Gatlingburg/Sevierville. He
encouraged fellow responders to seek as much training as possible and to lead with grace and kindness. Judge Harmon and the fiscal court received accolades from several first responders and Clay County Fire Alliance for their support of the fire departments throughout the county.
Photos by Les Nicholson
