The Exchange Club of Waycross celebrated the men and women who protect and serve the community at its annual Public Safety Banquet last week.
Sheriff Carl James served as the evening’s emcee, presenting each award highlighting the character, courage and commitment of this year’s honorees.
The banquet brought together representatives from every major public safety agency in Ware County. Family members, department leaders, and community supporters filled the room as each recipient was honored for excellence in their field.
Melissa Bennett was named Ware County Fire Rescue Volunteer of the Year. Sheriff James praised Bennett for her unwavering reliability, steady presence on the fireground, and willingness to step into any role needed without hesitation.
The department described her as one who “shows up ready to work, ready to serve, and ready to see the task through until it is completed,” a reputation she has earned through years of consistent, selfless service.
Bennett has built a professional career marked by integrity, precision, and dedication. She currently serves as Payroll Administrator and Deputy County Clerk for the Ware County Commission.
Gavin Bennett received the Ware County Fire Rescue Firefighter of the Year honor. Bennett, selected by his peers, was honored for his professionalism, maturity, and steady presence on emergency scenes.
Sheriff James noted he represents “the very best of homegrown dedication,” having graduated from Ware County High School before joining the department in 2024.
His colleagues speak highly of his preparation, his eagerness to learn, and his ability to remain calm under pressure, qualities that have quickly made him a trusted member of the team.
Logan Tuell was tabbed Ware County 911 Operator of the Year. Sheriff James highlighted the often unseen, but critical work of 911 operators as he introduced Tuell, who joined the center with no prior experience.
Tuell has handled a wide range of calls, from medical emergencies to domestic crises to suicidal individuals in need of compassion and clarity. His supervisors note he carries the emotional weight of the job with maturity, acknowledging that certain calls “stay with him forever,” yet continuing to serve with professionalism and empathy.
His colleagues describe him as respectful, dependable, and deeply committed to the mission of 911 communications.
Sergeant Duncan Kirkland was the recipient of the Waycross Police Department Public Safety Officer of the Year.
Sheriff James recounted the heroic actions of Sgt. Kirkland, whose service record spans both military and law enforcement excellence.
He serves on the SWAT entry team, works as a K-9 handler, and holds advanced firearms instructor certification— roles that require precision, judgment, and a steady temperament. His colleagues describe him as calm, methodical, and deeply committed to officer safety and accountability.
His defining moment came in May 2025, when he helped rescue Trooper Justin Jones from a submerged patrol vehicle and immediately rendered lifesaving CPR. His actions saved a life and earned him statewide recognition, including honors at the Georgia State Capitol.
Corporal Hunter Thomas was named the Ware County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Officer of the Year.
Sheriff James spoke with pride as he presented the award to Cpl. Thomas, describing him as a “servant leader whose optimism and team spirit lift everyone around him.”
Thomas began his career as a detention officer, before becoming a certified peace officer and later joining the Sheriff’s Office. He quickly earned the respect of his peers, rising to the rank of Corporal and serving as a relief shift supervisor and field training officer.
His lifesaving actions during a 2025 crash on U.S. 1 — where he crawled into a wrecked semi-truck to apply a tourniquet to a severely injured driver — were highlighted as a powerful example of courage under pressure.
Randy Cannon, Jr. received the Ware County EMS Provider of the Year honor. Sheriff James emphasized Cannon’s early beginnings as an Eagle Scout and fire department explorer — experiences which shaped his leadership, discipline, and commitment to helping others.
Since joining Ware County EMS in 2024, Cannon has distinguished himself as a reliable and driven provider who takes pride in continual learning. He is currently pursuing his paramedic license.
Colleagues describe him as steady under pressure, attentive to detail, and deeply compassionate toward patients and families.
Brandon Williams was recognized as Waycross Fire Department Firefighter of the Year. Williams was recognized for his remarkable personal transformation and leadership. Williams lost more than 65 pounds over a single year, earning the department’s highest fitness rating and inspiring his fellow firefighters through his determination and discipline.
His journey required overcoming doubt, pushing through physical and mental barriers, and embracing a level of accountability which reshaped both his health and his confidence. The transformation has made him a stronger firefighter, one who approaches training with intensity, encourages others, and leads by example.
Williams is now preparing for officer classes, signaling a future of leadership within the department. His colleagues describe him as supportive, motivating, and always willing to help someone else succeed.
Photo by JESSI COX Pictured are Exchange Club president Kirby McSwain; Gavin Bennett, Ware County Fire Rescue Firefighter of the Year; Melissa Bennett, Ware County Fire Rescue Volunteer of the Year; Randy Cannon, Ware County EMS EMS Provider of the Year; Logan Tuell, Ware County 911 Operator of the Year; Cpl. Hunter Thomas, Ware County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Officer of the Year; Sgt. Duncan Kirkland, Waycross Police Department Public Safety Officer of the Year; Brandon Williams, Waycross Fire Department Firefighter of the Year; Sheriff Carl James; and club president-elect Danny Bartlett.
