Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Georgia Safe

Georgia 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 Georgia 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!

Police Chief Gary Sparks (Douglasville) — In 2023, Chief Gary Sparks of the Douglasville Police Department was honored as "Member of the Year" by the Georgia Chapter of the FBI National Academy Associates for his deep-rooted commitment to community engagement. Sparks was recognized for leading outreach efforts like the long-running Youth Against Violence Program and for actively building stronger ties between law enforcement and residents. His dedication to public service played a pivotal role in the department also being named "Agency of the Year." The awards underscore Sparks’s role in building trust and strengthening ties between the department and the community. Read more here.

Captain Chris Bilik (Gwinnett County) — While driving to work early one morning in 2023, off-duty firefighter Chris Bilik spotted a young man lying in the middle of a Braselton intersection after a hit-and-run. Acting quickly, Bilik stopped his vehicle to block traffic, called 911 and stayed by the victim’s side until help arrived. A fellow off-duty firefighter soon joined him to assist with first aid and direct traffic. Their fast response likely saved the life of 21-year-old Bryson Moore, who had been knocked unconscious and suffered a brain injury. Read more here.

Officer Rashad Rivers (Covington) — Officer Rashad Rivers was awarded the Medal of Valor after risking his life to rescue a mother and child from a violent domestic dispute. Despite being shot in the face during the May 23, 2023 incident, Rivers relied on his training to shield the civilians and hold the situation until help arrived. His actions earned him the department’s highest honor, along with the Police Star, recognizing his bravery under life-threatening conditions. Rivers’s heroism reflects a relentless dedication to protecting others, even at great personal risk. Read more here.

Senior Officer Feniel Etienne (Lilburn) — Off-duty and without standard medical tools, Senior Officer Feniel Etienne didn’t hesitate to help a gunshot victim at a Suwanee auto shop. Using a belt as an improvised tourniquet, he slowed the bleeding and provided critical aid until emergency responders arrived. His quick response helped stabilize the victim’s condition and showed how first responders can make a life-saving difference, even when they’re not on duty. Etienne was honored with a Life-Saving Award at the Gwinnett County Valor Awards in 2025. Read more here.

Officer Jakori Edwards (Dunwoody) — Officer Jakori Edwards earned the title of Officer of the Year for stepping up when it mattered most. Throughout 2024, he volunteered for extra patrol shifts during staffing shortages, helping to keep Dunwoody neighborhoods safe even on his days off. Beyond the badge, he also lent his skills to the department’s social media and took on a variety of behind-the-scenes roles. His efforts helped maintain consistent coverage and communication during a critical staffing period, reinforcing his vital role within the department. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Georgia 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!