Wednesday, June 8, 2005 | ||
Bad Links? | Hindman named Fireman of the YearBy MICHAEL J. THOMPSON When you first meet Scott Hindman, its difficult to discern just how many hats he wears on a daily basis. The quiet, reserved 36-year-old serves as the lead electronics technician for the Fayette County Board of Education. His job takes him to all the county schools to ensure everything is running smoothly. That vocation alone would be trying enough, but in his spare time the father of two is a volunteer firefighter for the city of Fayetteville. He has served in that capacity for 11 years and was recently honored as the 2005 Firefighter of the Year by the Fayetteville Optimist Club. I was surprised, said Hindman on learning the news he was to be bestowed with the honor. Fire Chief (Alan) Jones called me to his office the week before the banquet and asked if I was available on a Thursday evening; I told him Id have to check with my wife, he said. Hindman is a man of few words, as he would rather let his actions and accomplishments speak for themselves, but Chief Jones isnt reticent to heap praise his way. Were just lucky to have him, said Jones. Hes a valuable asset and a big part of our department. With all the time pressures of being a volunteer firefighter, your job and family, Scott has gone above his duties and been incredibly committed to this city, and its protection, Jones said. Its hard to retain people, but Scott has been an amazing employee, he said. When Hindman started out as a volunteer firefighter in Fayetteville in 1994, he was one of 15 men who put in hours of training each week just to help serve his community. As the years went by, that number fluctuated and today, only four people comprise the volunteer force. You have to be dedicated, as I told my wife before we got married: Youre not marrying me, youre marrying the fire department, Hindman said. He has achieved the rank of lieutenant, as his current duties consist in emergency response and training activities and he also serves as a senior officer in the deparment. When he isnt responding to a call or working with the school system, Hindman enjoys partaking in his primary role, that of dad. I love watching my son play soccer and my daughter perform with her ballet group, he said, smiling. In fact, she has a recital coming up. After meeting Hindman, its easy to see which hat he enjoys wearing most. |
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