October 27, 2020 - During the October 27th Town Council Meeting, Mayor Nick Sanders and Council honored the men and women who are first responders in the TC community. Mayor Sanders issued a proclamation and both a Police Officer of the Year and Firefighter of the Year were selected by their peers to be honored. The Trophy Club Rotary Club also was present to honor the first responders and both honoree officers.
Every day our first responders say goodbye to their family and have no idea what they will see or walk into that day. They do this willingly because they believe in making a difference in the world. They chose to do this even knowing the risks. They keep you safe, they care for you when you are sick, afraid, and in need. They often risk their lives, health, and safety.
"Our first responders save countless lives every day, and many tragically pay the ultimate price in the line of duty—a sacrifice we should never forget. Designating a day to honor their service and sacrifice is the least we can do to express our gratitude," said Mayor Nick Sanders.
Trophy Club is lucky to have such dedicated first responders who never shy away from trouble, ridicule, or a challenge. They come in every day no matter what the climate is locally, nationally, or worldwide and they work. On this day, First Responders Day, and beyond, we should show our thanks for those who sometimes don't get the kudos they deserve.
"First responders are dedicated to protecting our community, and deserve to be recognized for the sacrifices they make to keep each and every one of us safe," said Town Manager Steve Norwood. "I'm pleased the Council read this proclamation to honor the heroes in Trophy Club who stand ready to help in an emergency."
About our TC Firefighter of the Year - Eric Sampson:
Eric Sampson has been with the Trophy Club Fire Department for 9 years and has served as a department Field Training Officer (FTO) for the last 7 years. Firefighter Sampson has a strong desire to teach others and has worked to develop several new firefighter/paramedics. Firefighter Sampson has taken the lead to assist Captain Sipes and Deputy Chief Cochran with multiple hands-on training scenarios, as well as, the development of multiple web-based training opportunities. Firefighter Sampson’s desire to keep up with current trends in the fire service makes him a great leader in the area of training.
During his tenure with Trophy Club Fire Department, firefighter Sampson received the Service Excellence Award (2014), and a special commendation from former Town Manager, Tom Class. Firefighter Sampson continuously performs exceptionally well on annual evaluations and remains humble to constructive criticism.
Firefighter Sampson’s ability to not only perform his duties with confidence but his desire to lead and mentor others makes him a tremendous asset to the Trophy Club Fire Department.
About our TC Police Officer of the Year - Barry Sullivan
Each year, the officers of the TCPD get the opportunity to vote for one of their peers to receive the Officer of the Year award! This past January, the officers decided that Officer Sullivan was deserving of this honor!
Officer Sullivan has been an influential part of the police department for over 12 years now and he has been serving as our K9 officer for nearly 5 years. The whole community knows and loves Sullivan and his partner Indy. Officer Sullivan’s peers selected him because he is a mentor, a friend, a leader, and a Field Training Officer. Additionally, this year Officer Sullivan has been promoted to the position of Sergeant and has been doing amazing things in that role!
The department is proud to present the Officer of the Year Award to Officer Barry Sullivan!
Proclamation 2020-11 - Town of Trophy Club, Texas
WHEREAS, courageous and dedicated men and women work to protect and aid the public during emergencies as both professional and volunteer first responders; and
WHEREAS, first responders Include 911 dispatchers, law-enforcement officers, professional and volunteer firefighters, professional and volunteer emergency medical services personnel, emergency management professionals, search and rescue teams, and members of other organizations In the public safety sector and specifically in Trophy Club include Firefighters, Police Officers, support personnel and volunteers in the Trophy Club Emergency Volunteer Association; and
WHEREAS, every day, first responders risk their own safety in the performance of their duties to protect our citizens; and
WHEREAS, first responders are the first and best defense against all emergencies that may threaten our communities; and
WHEREAS, first responders are ready to aid the people 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of inclement weather or other hazards; and
WHEREAS, first responders are highly trained, specialized workers who contribute their excellent skills for the public good; and
WHEREAS, the members of first responder organizations undergo extensive education, and training and make significant personal sacrifices in order to achieve the expertise required to respond to emergency situations; and
WHEREAS, in addition to maintaining safety and order in times of crisis, many first responders also enhance their communities as volunteers for service organizations, churches, and schools while serving their families at home.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, MAYOR C. NICK SANDERS, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE TROPHY CLUB TOWN COUNCIL AND TO COINCIDE WITH THE NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS’ DAY DO HEREBY PROCLAIM OCTOBER 28, 2020 AS: “FIRST RESPONDERS’ DAY” IN TROPHY CLUB, TEXAS PASSED AND APPROVED by the Trophy Club Town Council this 27th day of October 2020.