
TWO Tamworth men have been singled out for honours at a statewide Rural Fire Service ceremony for exceptional service and bravery.
Sam Hatch and John Tucker received a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service for their actions the day of a truck crash in the Singleton CBD in late 2017.
NSW RFS commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons presented the Tamworth Support Brigade members with their awards at the event at NSW RFS Headquarters.
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“Sam and John, whilst driving along the New England Highway, observed a truck driving erratically and alerted authorities,” he said.
“They followed the vehicle into Singleton CBD, where it proceeded to collide with a number of vehicles and people before crashing and catching on fire.
“Both Sam and John immediately administered first aid to those injured in vehicles and along the roadside, putting themselves at risk before other emergency services arrived on scene.”
Firefighters’ day
Held on May 4 each year, the award ceremony coincides with the Feast Day of St Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, and International Firefighters’ Day.
Fifteen people and 11 teams were recognised.
“Today we thank the many men and women of the NSW RFS who are on call day after day, serving our communities and selflessly responding to all manner of emergencies,” Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant said.
“Our NSW RFS men and women do their jobs quietly, never asking for praise, awards or accolades, but it’s important their commitment and dedication is recognised.
“Families across the state should be rightly proud of the efforts of the NSW RFS, and I thank each and every member of the emergency service for their hard work.”