Day after day, public safety officials put their own lives on the line to protect and serve the community at large.

They run into burning buildings, track down criminals and keep an eye out for danger, so the public might be safe.

Often, they carry out their duties without a lot of thanks, but at least once a year, their selflessness is acknowledged through the Governor’s Public Safety Awards program.

This year, 20 public safety professionals received recognition — four of which were from this region.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to pay tribute to Georgia’s public safety professionals who risk their lives daily and sacrifice time away from their families to protect our citizens,” said J. Dale Mann, Georgia Public Safety Training Center director and awards committee chairman.

The awards are separated into two categories: heroism and contribution to the profession.

Capt. Keith Canup of the Georgia State Patrol received a heroism award for his actions while responding to a vehicle crash in Gainesville.

While on patrol, Canup spotted a crashed van, which was on fire, with the driver trapped inside. Canup extinguished the flames and helped rescue the driver, who was suffering from diabetic shock.

Officers Wayne Green and Greg Chastain with the Cornelia Police Department also received awards for their acts of heroism. After responding to an emergency call about a crash in Habersham County, the duo discovered a vehicle had flipped into a pond. The driver of the vehicle was unconscious and totally submerged, while the water was up to the passenger’s chin.

After wading into the muddy water, the officers were able to pry open the jammed doors and rescue both passengers. Upon getting both women to shore, the officers started CPR on the driver and were able to restore her breathing and pulse.
Billy Thurmond, Dawson County Emergency Services director, received an award for his contributions to his profession.

According to the awards committee, Thurmond was instrumental in the development of the county’s 911 advisory board and worked to merge the county’s volunteer fire, emergency medical and emergency management services.

“Each year, (these awards have) given us the opportunity to recognize the heroism and contributions of the public safety community in the protection of our citizens,” Gov. Sonny Perdue said. “They courageously step forward and lead in times of crisis. They guard against national and international terrorists, defend our children against sexual predators and protect our neighborhoods from fire, crime and chaos.”