Veterans of Foreign Wars award civil servants

Published 10:46 am Wednesday, February 15, 2023

THOMASVILLE- The Thomas County Board of Commissioners held their regular meeting on Tuesday, February 14, where VFW Post 4995 presented awards to a law enforcement officer and EMT. 

Every year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars recognize the public servants of every county and municipality in  the state. 

The first award is known as the VFW National Emergency Medical Technical Public Servant Citation. 

“It is awarded to any individual who actively gives emergency medical treatment, provides rescue service or civil disaster assistance,” said Greg Thweatt Post 4995 Commander. “They can be a member of any public or private company organized to give emergency medical care.” 

Individuals given this award had to first be recognized by their colleagues for their work or those they serve, show consistent excellence in their performances and show dedication and continuous growth in their field for a number of years. 

“It’s with great pride and special recognition that we recognize Michael J. Bennefield,” Thweatt said. 

Following a round of applause, Thweatt provided Bennefield with a challenge coin. 

“This challenge coin is for the Emergency Medical Association and has a picture of a helicopter and ambulance,” he said. “It is something new we are doing this year and it is well-deserved.” 

Thweatt then shared the second award, known as the VFW National Law Enforcement Public Servant Citation. 

This award is given to any individual who serves in a municipal, county, state or federal unit tasked with enforcement of the laws pertaining to their area of responsibility. 

Much like the previous award, the individual must be first recognized by their colleagues or those they serve and show consistent excellence in their duties and continuous growth in their education and skills. 

“With tender appreciation and grateful recognition, this is awarded to Sgt. Brandon Hill,” Thweatt announced. 

Thweatt provided a challenge coin to Hill as well, which had a thin blue line for Sheriff’s deputies and stands for integrity. The coin is additionally etched with the oath of office. 

Thweatt congratulated Hill, before thanking the Commissioners for allowing him the opportunity to present the awards during the morning meeting.