Cherokee County Firefighter Awarded Medal of Valor

A Cherokee County firefighter has earned a Medal of Valor from the fire department, the first award of its kind.

Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services awarded Lt. Corey Deal with the organization’s first Medal of Valor during a special ceremony at the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners July 16 meeting.

This award recognizes Deal for “bravery and selfless actions under extreme circumstances” during a response to a medical emergency in 2018, according to the fire department.

According to CCFES, on May 9, 2018, Deal and his crew encountered a patient in a postictal state who unexpectedly brandished a firearm, with intent to harm the responders. Deal was credited with quickly intervening, successfully disarming the individual and ensuring the safety of his team.

“This is to certify that the Fire Chief of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services has awarded the Medal of Valor to Lieutenant Corey Deal for acting with outstanding heroism under hazardous conditions in which he placed himself in a life-threatening position to save the life of his crew,” the citation reads.

“We are incredibly proud to honor Lt. Corey Deal with the first Medal of Valor presented by Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services,” said Fire Chief Eddie Robinson. “His bravery and leadership in the face of life-threatening danger are a testament to his exceptional character and dedication to our community and the members of our department.”

The Awards and Recognition program, under which Deal was honored, was established by CCFES last year to commend individuals who demonstrate exemplary service and bravery in the line of duty.