05/06/2026
From Assistant Chief Hartline
After spending some time back home, I’ve had the opportunity to reflect on our wildfire deployment to Brantley County. Firefighters from across the State of Georgia came together in a time of need, facing daily challenges—many encountering extreme fire behavior unlike anything they had experienced before, with fires consuming everything in their path.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to assist and for the full support of our department throughout this deployment. While we were able to help save many homes, we also witnessed devastating loss. Our hearts go out to the families who have been displaced, and they remain in our thoughts and prayers.
On a personal note, I would like to thank our team for their tireless dedication and long hours in difficult conditions. Avery White, Colton Pace, Tommy Harrison, Dylan Floyd, and Drew Stanley—thank you for your hard work, commitment, and professionalism.
I would also like to recognize our fellow firefighters from other agencies, including Garden City Fire Rescue, Savannah Fire Department, Burke County EMA, Chatham County Fire Department, Bold Spring Fire Rescue, Royston Fire Department, Richmond Hill Fire Department, and Bryan County Fire & Rescue (and others I may have unintentionally missed). Thank you for your outstanding service, professionalism, and unwavering dedication.
Avery White Tommy Harrison Drew Stanley Colton Pace
Garden City Fire Rescue, Savannah Fire Department, Burke County EMA - GA, Chatham County Fire Department, Bold Spring Fire Rescue, Royston Fire Department, Richmond Hill Fire Department Bryan County Fire & Rescue
