Fire service employees recognized for 30 years of service

A pair of Troup County Fire Department employees were recently recognized for a combined 60 years of service during the Board of Commissioners work session.

Kevin Norred and Keith Bonner received their 30-year awards during the quarterly service awards on Tuesday morning.

John “Kevin” Norred began his career with the Troup County Fire Department in 1991 as a volunteer firefighter before eventually becoming a full-time employee in 1994.

After graduating from Troup High School in 1986, Norred served in the United States Army from 1986 until 199. For his service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal and the Bronze Star Medal for his heroism while serving in Operation “Just Cause” in Panama in 1989.

With the fire department, Norred has served in numerous positions, such as Firefighter, Firefighter/EMT, Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal and earned multiple certifications, including Firefighter, EMT-1, Fire Investigator and the completion of the Fire Science Diploma and Degree Program through West Georgia Technical College.

Norred also completed law enforcement training to become a certified peace officer in Columbus, Ga. and is deputized by the Troup County Sheriff’s Department.

Norred is also deputized as the local Fire Marshal through the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire of Georgia.

He and his wife, Shannon, have been married for 33 years and they have one son, Codi.

Melvin “Keith” Bonner also began his career with the Troup County Fire Department in June 1994.

“During his time here, he has constantly sought to improve his knowledge and skills in the fire service,” Fire Chief Michael Strickland said.

Bonner has obtained certifications as Emergency Medical Technician, Instructor 1, Advanced Extrication, Interior Search and Rescue and Hazmat Operations. Bonner also received two Life Safety Valor Awards and was also voted Firefighter of the Year.

“[Bonner] has remained an exemplary employee during his time with Troup County. He is always on time for work and ready to start his shift with the goal of serving and protecting the citizens of our county. He’s always willing to go the extra mile on emergency scenes, as well as helping newer employees and recruits learn the ins and outs of the fire service. His dedication to his job, the department, and the citizens he serves shines at all times,” Strickland said.

Bonner has been married to his wife, Candy, for 36 years. He has two children, Marty and Britney, along with four grandchildren.

Other service-award recipients include:

4 TCSO Lt. Jeffrey Duran, County Engineer James Emery and First Tee Administrator Michelle Griffith were recognized for 20 years of service.

4 TCSO Deputy Adam Richardson was recognized for 15 years of service.

4 Solicitor Sandra Taylor and Airport Lineworker Steven Sivell were recognized for 10 years of service.

4 Parks and Recreation Director Lance Dennis, Parks Worker Troy Alderman and Mechanic Trae Dunn were recognized for five years of service.

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