VFW Post 4995 awards public servants for exemplary service

Jill Holloway, Thomasville Times-Enterprise, Ga.
·2 min read

May 14—THOMASVILLE- VFW Post 4995 surprised four deserving civil servants with awards on Tuesday morning during the County Commissioners' regular meeting.

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

Lyndall Knight, former commander of the Allen Cook VFW Chapter 4995, recognized four individuals for exemplary service, protecting life and property while displaying personal courage.

He first presented E-911 operator Cherish Baillargeone with a certificate of special recognition for outstanding service to humanity through administrative service between carriers in distress and emergency response teams. He also presented Baillargeone with a challenge coin.

"This is your challenge coin that you should always have with you," Knight said. "It has your oath engraved on it."

With a round of applause, Knight then turned his attention to Captain Jerome Burgess of the Thomas County Sheriff's Office.

Burgess, a 4-year employee of the TCSO, was given a certificate in grateful recognition for adhesion to the highest goals in law enforcement, while maintaining and protecting the laws and rights of all citizens. Burgess was additionally given a challenge coin.

Paramedic and firefighter Christopher Wynn was presented with a certificate for exemplary service to humanity through emergency medical assistance and gifted a challenge coin to keep on his rides as well.

Wynn was additionally recognized during the John B. Gordon Chapter 383 Memorial Day Program on April 27, for his public service contributions, receiving Medal No. 101 for Thomas County EMS.

Finally, Command Captain Clint Chastain was presented with a certificate. However, he was unable to accept it due to fulfilling his public service duties. Emergency Services Director Derek Ogletree accepted the coin and certificate on Chastain's behalf.

These public servants are also recognized by their colleagues as individuals who are dedicated and consistently demonstrate excellence in their duties and profession.