On Friday, June 28, Whitfield County Fire Department Training Division Chief Sam Hammontree was honored as the recipient of Chattanooga television station News Channel 9’s Pay It Forward.
Hammontree’s son, Branson, nominated his father after being inspired by the segment on the news.
Branson Hammontree said, “I was watching someone receive the award for helping in the community and I thought I could nominate my dad because he has helped so many kids get where they needed to be.”
Sam Hammontree played a crucial role in developing the First Responders Pathway Program at the Northwest Georgia College & Career Academy that was launched in January 2023.
“He deserves this recognition for what he has done in the community,” Branson Hammontree added.
Members of Sam Hammontree’s family joined News Channel 9 at the fire training center to surprise him with the award.
“He has no idea. They’re going to bring him in here, and he will be surprised with $500 and a News Channel interview,” said Branson Hammontree.
The $500 cash prize is sponsored by the McMahan Law Firm through News Channel 9.
A surprised Sam Hammontree expressed his gratitude.
“I’m very humbled that they chose me, and it makes me proud that my kids nominated me,” he said.
He shared his enthusiasm for the recognition the program is receiving: “It’s great for our department and provides those in our community with the opportunity to pursue this career.”
For more information on the First Responders Pathway Program, please visit www.wcsga.net.
Submitted by Whitfield County government.