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Mark Parker recognized as Morrison’s fireman of year

With pagers and radios on their hips ready to respond if needed, members of the Morrison Volunteer Fire Department and First Responders gathered Monday night to honor one of their own, Mark Parker.

Voted 2003 Fireman of the Year by his fellow volunteers, Parker is a long-time veteran of the department.

In presenting the plaque, fire chief Bobby Prater spoke of the countless hours Parker devotes to the volunteer department.

“He helps us all do a better job,” Prater said. “He has been helping since he was old enough to ride the fire engine.”

In accepting the award, Parker said, “I love what we do. I’m lucky my job lets me spend so much time doing what I love. Thank you.”

Following the award presentation, Warren County Emergency Management director Phillip Prater told the group about the many new grants obtained by the local agency. He emphasized how these will benefit the county’s volunteer departments.

“Equipment and training will be available,” he said, “that will make your jobs easier and safer.”

Gladys Jacobs presented the Morrison Volunteer Fire Department with a special donation from the Jacobs family in memory of her husband, Harris Jacobs. Mayor Jacobs was a life-long member of the department and instrumental in obtaining a new fire engine before his death last year.

In her remarks, Mrs. Jacobs recalled, “Harris loved his family, the volunteer fire department and fishing with Bobby Prater.”

The men and women of Morrison Volunteer Fire Department and First Responders are all volunteers who donate their time and energy to saving the lives of those within their community. They serve a large area that stretches from McMinnville city limits to the Coffee County line and from Jacksboro Bridge to midway to Viola.

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