A MODEL VOLUNTEER: William Hurst was named Volunteer Firefighter of the Year out of approximately 130 individuals for his dedication to his community.

CAIRO – William Hurst views his role as a volunteer firefighter as an opportunity to serve the Grady County community. His service has netted him much-deserved recognition.

Out of approximately 130 volunteers, Hurst was recognized as the county wide volunteer of the year.

“I’m also a pastor (Gordon Heights Baptist Church) so I’m all about serving and being involved in the community, ministering to people. I take that very seriously,” Hurst said. “I think it’s a great opportunity just as a volunteer of course to minister, reach people and serve people on their worst day. We get calls as a firefighter when somebody’s worst day is happening. It means a lot to be recognized for that. I don’t do for the recognition, but it does make you feel good when it is recognized.”

Hurst has served as a volunteer firefighter for more than five years over two different stints in Grady County. His selection this year was a no-brainer, according to Justin Highland with Grady County Fire and Rescue.

“We look at the whole work and dedication put in throughout the year,” said Highland. “He helps train volunteers on county wide and station duties. He helps evaluate new recruits for the state for the state testing. He helps cover shifts whenever somebody’s out.

“He does a little bit of everything.”

What sets Hurst apart is his mindset when enrolling as a volunteer firefighter. He views it solely as a way to serve those in need.

“The first night of class whenever you sign up to take it, the first question they ask is, ‘Why do you want to be a firefighter?’ To me that question matters. For me that question was, I want to serve my community and that’s one organization and one way that I can serve my community,” Hurst said. “Everybody can’t do it. There may be physical limitations or whatever, but I think you’ve got to go in with the right mindset that you’re helping somebody else.

“Our tagline that we’ve adopted this past year is, ‘We’re doing it for them;’ our community, our fellow firefighters and those that are in need. It’s all for them. It’s nothing for me.”