A hero retires from Dawson County EMS

DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – Dawson County Emergency Services Director Lanier Swafford faces a nearly impossible task in the new year – replacing the old warhorse Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield, who is retiring this week.

Satterfield, a 41-year fire services veteran, has humbly, selflessly and heroically served the citizens of Dawson County the last 12 years, following stints in Clayton County and the cities of McDonough, Georgia, and Clearwater, Florida.

Dawson County Commissioners recently celebrated Satterfield’s service with a reception following the Board of Commissioners work session.

Satterfield has specialized in canine search and rescue and has taken part in more than 50 state and federal level missions, including water search, arson, bomb disaster search and work with missing and abducted children. He is state coordinator for the urban search and rescue team and was one of the first of 12 team members in the U.S. certified in child abduction response. His K-9 unit received the Marguerite Brock Rescue Award from the Emergency Management Association of Georgia.

In September, Ninth District Congressman Doug Collins presented Satterfield the “Hero” award as someone who has gone above and beyond during their career to help citizens in and around their communities.

In presenting the award, Collins said, “First responders represent some of the most selfless and skillful public servants I know. As the son of a Georgia State Trooper, I have seen their commitment to their neighbors throughout my life, and Deputy Chief Satterfield is an example of humble service. I’m grateful that northeast Georgia is home to such brave first responders.”

County Manager David Headley added, “Tim has risked his life and put himself in harm’s way so that others may live. He has minimized pain for others and given them comfort in their time of need. Knowing Chief Satterfield both on the job and in his personal life, his hand is always stretched out to serve others. He is someone who has given his life to something other than himself and truly is a hero. A grateful community says congratulations and thanks to Chief Satterfield.”

 

 

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