continued from page ties include ….

continued from page

ties include body recovery, boating accidents, and evidence retrieval. “Nine times out of ten, we’re called for a body recovery,” Glenn noted. The team is composed of deputies, EMA staff, firefighters, a paramedic, and an EMT.

Dive responses are carefully coordinated. When a call is received, leadership gathers details and decides whether to place the team on standby. Once standby is confirmed, dive members confirm availability and the team gears up at EMA headquarters before heading to the scene. Once on-site, a staging area is established, and a briefing is held to prepare divers for the mission.

The team’s reputation is growing. Neighboring counties such as Laurens, Dodge, Wheeler, and Toombs now recognize their capability and readiness.

“Each dive is significant to me,” Glenn said. “There was one mission that really showed how far we’ve come. Seeing the team work together efficiently and professionally proved we were an asset to the community. In even the most tragic situations, we do whatever we can to bring closure to families.”

To ensure the team is prepared for any environment, training is conducted in Florida springs, local dive spots, and the Florida Keys. Glenn holds his divers to high standards to be a team that can perform at its best.

Although funding has remained a challenge, this $10,000 donation from the Harmony Lodge will help to further the team’s ability to serve the community. “We’re here to help,” Glenn said. “I just wish more people knew that we’re here if they ever need us.”

TRAINING ON LOCAL WATERWAYS – Members of the Treutlen County Dive Team conduct a raining exercise at a local waterway. The team practices search-andrecover techniques regularly to stay prepared for emergency callouts.

TREUTLEN COUNTY DIVE TEAM – The Treutlen County Dive Team poses with members of the Harmony Lodge 405 after the Lodge Members presented the Team with a check for $10,000. Front row (L to R) : Josh Cammack, Nathan Beck, Kevin Wheeler, Chris Brewer, Joseph Glenn, Carmen Graham, Haden Youmans, Mitchell Meeks, Floy McClaire, Berry Mayer Back row (L to R) : Eddie Vongsouvanh, Jamie Bridges, Mikey Milton, Justin McNure, Jack Borne, Joey Powell, James Griffin, John Webb, Homer Rivers, Roy Marcin, Derek PhillipsPhoto by Makaylee Randolph

PUBLIC SERVANT APPRECIATION DINNER – Harmony Lodge 405 of Soperton hosted firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, dispatchers, and others for an appreciation dinner on Tuesday, September 9.Photo by Makaylee Randolph