Fire Marshals Sworn, Firefighters Recognized

As part of the 39th annual Firefighters Recognition Day, local firefighters were recently recognized during ceremonies at the state capitol.

Firefighters from and departments were in attendance along with others from around the state. Representatives of the House, Senate, Office of Insurance Commissioner and Gov. Nathan Deal presented resolutions.

 The event was led by Cartersville Fire Chief Scott Carter, who is currently serving as president of the Georgia State Firefighters Association.

“Firefighters, this is your day. Many will call you heroes, we will call ourselves servants,” Carter told attendees in his remarks.

Carter also said the event was humbling for state government to pause and say thank you for what at times can be a thankless job.

The program included remarks from many legislative leaders from Georgia as well as Cartersville Fire Department Training Chief Ronnie Cowart who also serves as the Chaplin for the GSFA.

 In addition to the recognition ceremonies, two members of Cartersville Fire Department were sworn in as fire marshals by Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens.

Fire Marshal Mark Hathaway and Assistant Fire Marshal Eric Williams were sworn in as part of their responsibilities of origin and cause investigations. This will allow a seamless transition between state and locals for fire investigation enhancing the service provided by the Cartersville Fire Department.