Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Arkansas Safe

Arkansas is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Arkansas first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Officer L.C. “Buckshot” Smith (Camden) — In March 2023, Officer L.C. “Buckshot” Smith of the Camden Police Department officially retired, ending an extraordinary law enforcement career that spanned nearly 65 years. Known for his deep knowledge and dedication, Smith initially worked for free before serving with the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Office and later returning to Camden to mentor younger officers. Even in his 90s, he continued patrolling and escorting local events, embodying lifelong service to his community. Read more here.

Officer Ashlee Frost (Pottsville) — In January 2023, Pottsville Junior High EAST students honored Officer Ashlee Frost of the Pottsville Police Department as part of their “Everyday Heroes” project. After interviewing her, the students learned that Frost, in her first year as a police officer, has shown incredible dedication to her new role, working hard through training and persevering through challenges to serve her community. Officer Frost shared her journey from real estate to law enforcement, her passion for helping others, and the importance of maintaining mental health in the field. The students appreciated Officer Frost’s openness, positive attitude and inspiring message about seeing the good in people, recognizing her as a true everyday hero. Read more here.

Sheriff Mike Knoedl (Fordyce) — In January 2025, Dallas County Sheriff Mike Knoedl was among the first responders to engage and arrest a gunman who opened fire at the Mad Butcher supermarket in Fordyce, Arkansas, killing four people and wounding nine. Calm under pressure, Knoedl and his officers quickly returned fire, distracting the shooter and allowing victims to find cover before apprehending him and organizing aid for the wounded. For his bravery and leadership, Knoedl was awarded the inaugural Arkansas Medal of Freedom by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders during her State of the State address. Knoedl, who helped raise nearly $80,000 for victims' families in the aftermath, was recognized for his high character and commitment to public service during the tragedy. Read more here.

Officer Jason Bristow (Hoxie) — In July 2024, Officer Jason Bristow of the Hoxie Police Department saved the life of a woman exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning. While conducting a traffic stop, Bristow was alerted by Lawrence County Dispatch that they had lost contact with a caller who reported her carbon monoxide detector was going off. Bristow quickly responded to the scene, made entry into the home when he received no answer, and found the woman lying face down and unresponsive, safely removing her before Fire Rescue and EMS arrived. For his bravery and quick thinking, Officer Bristow was awarded the Life Saving Award by the City of Hoxie and praised for his dedication to helping those in need. Read more here.

Detectives Michael Gibbons & Cody Brown (Little Rock) —In February 2024, Detectives Michael Gibbons and Cody Brown of the North Little Rock Police Department helped save the life of a 16-month-old toddler found unresponsive near Interstate 440. While investigating a tragic crime scene, Gibbons noticed the child move and quickly called for Brown, who ran to the toddler, administered back thrusts and rescue breaths, and wrapped him in his sweatshirt to treat hypothermia. The child slowly regained consciousness and was transported to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Brown and Gibbons were later honored with lifesaving awards for their swift action, compassion, and determination to save the boy’s life in a heartbreaking situation. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Arkansas to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!