To the Editor:
While families gather round the table to enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, open presents and all the other family traditions that the holidays bring, there is a small group of men and women who have already celebrated or will have to wait another day to celebrate. It is because these folks don’t work for a business that can lock its doors and walk away for a day or two. I am referring to those who serve our communities day and night, 365 days a year. Our Emergency Services Personnel: South Carolina Highway Patrol, Dillon County Sheriff’s Department, Dillon, Latta, and Lake View Police officers, Dillon County Firefighters, Dillon County EMS, and our Dispatchers. I understand that those who were on the clock received Holiday Pay, but even so, they have selected a career that takes them away from family and friends on many special occasions. You also have the volunteers who responded to Fire Calls and/or Rescue Calls for our County Departments and Independent Departments, some while their dinners were being served and their family wanted them home the most. They give their time whenever you call.
These folks often eat cold meals, fast food, or something cooked in a microwave. They go from a dead sleep to rushing out the door. They have a day away from work only to be called to help remove a victim trapped in a wrecked car or a burning house. On days when we have much to celebrate, they answer the call to someone’s darkest hour. And unfortunately, they are with a victim, a patient, and/or your family member when they take their last breath.
This Thanksgiving, I had the privilege of being off duty and was able to spend the day with family out of town. As I sat down and watched everyone preparing food and finding the game on TV, I thought about my brothers and sisters who were serving and what their day might hold. I don’t want to leave out those who serve our country at home and overseas everyday and night, either. Thank you, Service Members! Please remember regardless of the compensation, there are always men and women making a sacrifice to be there for YOU.
John R. Smith
Dillon County
Station #3, Chief
2203 Hwy 41 S
Lake View, SC 29563