The Chattanooga Fire Department on Monday held its annual Fire Prevention Week ceremonies at the Fire Training Center and at Fountain Square next to the county courthouse. Fire Chief Randy Parker and Fire Marshal James Whitmire kicked off the event, which marks a series of public education events at area schools to teach children about fire safety.
Rick Carlson with the Chattanooga Hamilton Place Rotary Club announced the Fire Department’s selection of Lt. Terry Knowles as this year’s Firefighter of the Year. Lt. Knowles was picked because of his role in an incident that occurred earlier this year.
“On Sunday, May 20, a church held a baptism service at a local pool. After the service, some of the kids were swimming as the adults visited with each other on the pool deck. While the adults talked, a young child began to cry for help. He had gotten into water over his head and was unable to swim to safety. Without hesitation, Lt. Terry Knowles jumped into the pool - in his Sunday clothes and with two cell phones - grabbed the child and delivered him safely to his parents.
“This action by Lt. Knowles demonstrates the professionalism embodied by members of the Chattanooga Fire Department. His immediate action serves as an example for others to follow. I’m proud to call Terry Knowles a friend and I’m honored to serve alongside him as an emergency responder in the City of Chattanooga,” said Lt. Nathan Vaughn with the Chattanooga Police Department, who witnessed the life-saving rescue.
At the Firefighter’s Memorial Fountain next to the county courthouse, Fire Chief Randy Parker led a brief ceremony recognizing the firefighters who passed away over the last year.