Waycross and Ware County first responders were honored last month by the Waycross Exchange Club during its annual Public Safety banquet at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds.
Members of the city’s and county’s law enforcement, fire, medical and communications staffs were honored for their efforts the past year. A member from each of seven areas received special recognition for their work.
• Waycross Police Department: Lt. Casey Caswell;
• Ware County Sheriff’s Office: Detective Sgt. James Kenneth Cox III;
• Waycross Fire Department: Firefighter Kaitlyn Holland;
• Ware County Fire & Rescue: Firefighter Marcus Dickey;
• Volunteer Firefighter: Matt Williams;
• Ware County EMS: Capt. Jamie Lamie, Paramedic of the Year.
• Waycross-Ware 911: Katie Carter.
Caswell was honored for extraordinary dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the department’s values. With more than 23 years of service to the community where he was born and raised, Caswell has proven himself to be a cornerstone of public safety in Waycross, Police Chief Tommy Cox said in nominating the honoree.
Ware County Sheriff Carl James praised Cox’s exceptional career and a standout investigation that dismantled a major drug trafficking ring in Georgia in nominating Cox.
The cornerstone of Cox’s nomination ws a months-long investigation he spearheaded, alongside Det. LeeVon Payne, which led to the indictment of seven suspects on charges including racketeering, drug trafficking, conspiracy, and use of a communication facility in commission of a felony.
Holland, who has served the department for more than five years, was honored as a shining example of dedication, resilience, and excellence in service. This year, Holland made history as the first female firefighter in the department to meet its rigorous new physical performance standard. Beyond her physical feats, Holland is celebrated as a leader and role model within the department.
Dickey is a man whose life story exemplifies courage, service, and dedication, Chief Dee Meadows said in recognizing Dickey. Though relatively new to the department (2024), Dickey’s extensive background in the military and volunteer firefighting, paired with his unwavering commitment to his community, made him a standout candidate for the honor, Meadows said.
Williams was chosen for his selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to the community he has served for more than a 13 years.
Williams’ contributions extend far beyond the fire line. He is an active participant in training exercises, attends department meetings, and consistently goes the extra mile to ensure the team’s success, said Battalion Chief Matthew Grantham in nominating Williams.
Lamie was recognized for his exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication to his team and community. His journey with Ware County EMS began in 2016 when he joined as an EMT-A.
He advanced to paramedic and, in 2022, earned the rank of Captain. Alongside his professional achievements, Lamie completed an associate degree in paramedicine further solidifying his commitment to excellence in emergency care.
Carter was lauded as a dedicated and compassionate Communications Officer, who demonstrates exceptional skill and resilience.
Her commitment shines brightest in the face of adversity, colleagues said in her nomination. In recent weeks, she skillfully managed three separate calls involving motor vehicle fatalities.
