Hancock honored for service

Published 2:09 pm Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Members of the Drakes Branch Volunteer Fire Department (DBVFD) held a surprise celebration on Sept. 12 honoring Charlie Hancock for his 50 years of service to the fire department.

Hancock is currently serving as president of the department and has served as chief in the past.
“We are a better organization because of members like Charlie,” said DBVFD Chief Kenny Tharpe.

Hancock was presented with a plaque noting his 50 years of service. “I was surprised, and I appreciate it,” said Hancock. “It is something that a lot of people never get, but I didn’t do it (serve) for that. I like to help people out when I can and being on the fire department is one way I can do that.”

Chief Tharpe pointed out that it is Hancock and others like him that has helped the younger firefighters along the way. “He’s among a few other members that have been on the department for quite a few years (and) are very important,” added Tharpe. “Even though they may not participate in actual firefighting much, they understand the meaning of a dollar and teach the younger generation the meaning of respect and honor.”