On November 2, 2023, Morrison responded to a hit-and-run motorcycle traffic accident at Honeycutt Road and Lane Street on Fort Liberty. The driver, thrown over 30 feet from his vehicle had sustained severe injuries including large lacerations that exposed his skull and significant tissue and home damage to his left leg.
Morrison applied a Combat Application Tourniquet to the victim’s leg to stop the bleeding and used hemostatic gauze to control hemorrhaging from the head and face. He performed CPR on the individual for approximately 10 minutes until EMS arrived and assumed care. Morrison then took the initiative to provide a police escort for the EMS personnel transporting the victim until the individual was airlifted to UNC Hospital for a higher level of care.
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Hopkins exemplifies the meaning of service before self, leadership, and service to our community both within Fort Liberty and in Cumberland County. He currently serves as Fortt Liberty’s Senior Chaplain and manages a team of four assigned chaplains. During the past year, Hopkins and his team have conducted several Critical Incident Stress Debriefings within the community, including Spring Lake and Westarea Fire Dept. He also conducted CISDs on Fort Liberty, not only internally, but with external partners like Fort Liberty EMS and Womack Army Medical Center.
On several occasions, active duty personnel have reached out to Hopkins for support, and he graciously devoted his time to them in their hour of need. Additionally, he serves on the executive board for the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association as the Association Secretary, a critical position in the Association. Hopkins tracks and compiles meeting minutes and distributes them to all County Fire Chiefs. He has been instrumental in the success of the association in several other areas, including the awards program.
In addition, Hopkins has volunteered and supported multiple promotion boards for the City of Fayetteville’s Fire Dept. and has provided inspirational briefings, Hopkins comes to work each day with a heart for connecting with people, sometimes on the worst days of their lives. He is the epitome of a leader who conveys compassion, honesty, and integrity, day in and day-out.
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Firpi has shown exceptional dedication through his service as a firefighter and EMT with Stoney Point Volunteer Fire Dept. Despite his demanding full-time position with the Fort Liberty Fire Dept., Firpi consistently goes above and beyond by volunteering his time at Stoney Point, providing crucial daytime support when many other volunteers are unavailable.
Firpi’s hard work and commitment are evident in his willingness to take on additional tasks such as station chores and yard work to keep the Dept. running smoothly. Furthermore, Firpi’s ability to speak multiple languages has assisted Spanish-speaking individuals during crises, highlighting his invaluable contributions to serving diverse communities. His dedication to serving others, even after completing grueling 48-hour shifts, exemplifies his exceptional character and selflessness.
Firpi’s outstanding reputation among his colleagues and superiors, coupled with his devotion to his family, makes him a truly exemplary member of the Stoney Point Volunteer Fire Dept. Team.
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While performing his assistant patrol supervisor duties on Fort Liberty, Bass responded to a call for service. He learned that a woman had expressed suicidal ideations and was missing but was believed to be in the Mott Lake area. Bass arrived on the scene and hastily searched the east bank. Unable to locate the possible vehicle, he went to the west bank of the lake and located an abandoned vehicle. Bass began to canvass the area and observed a person floating face down in the lake, approximately 25 meters from the shoreline.
Bass removed his law enforcement gear and proceeded into the water, swimming out to the victim. He reached the victim and brought her back to shore, immediately initiating CPR efforts. Bass continued to perform CPR until the victim regained consciousness. He successfully transitioned her care to the responding EMT. The person Bass rescued was identified as the missing person of concern and his quick response and courageous actions on the scene saved her life.
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Gibson assisted in the rescue of three boaters on Sharon Harris Lake, located in Chatham County. He noticed three victims in the water, struggling to stay afloat after their boat capsized. Gibson entered the water without hesitation and began assisting the victims.
Gibson was able to aid each victim by securing their life preservers. One by one, he assisted the victims to his vessel and returned them to shore. The quick actions of Gibson were instrumental in saving the lives of the three victims, who may have drowned or succumbed to hypothermia. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of Fort Liberty’s DES and reflect a great credit upon himself, the US Army Garrison Fort Liberty, IMCOM, and the US Army.
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FORT LIBERTY, N.C. - The Public Safety Valor Awards stand as a beacon of recognition and gratitude, highlighting the exceptional bravery and selflessness displayed by the Fort Liberty emergency services’ first responders. This prestigious event was held at Manna Church on Sep. 10, featuring over 50 award recipients across eight categories, and honors those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities.
“The Sixth Annual Public Safety Valor Awards are both a celebration of courage and a testament to the spirit of service that runs deep within our community,” said 2024 Valor Awards Chair, Jennifer McFadyen. “These first responders – firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs, and paramedics – are the heroes who answer the call, often risking their own lives to protect ours.”
Recipients of the Valor Awards are chosen based on their demonstration of exceptional courage, quick thinking, and dedication to public safety. Whether it's risking their lives to save others, implementing innovative solutions to complex challenges, or displaying unwavering commitment to their communities, these individuals exemplify the highest standards of service and bravery.
Jason Mang: A Dedicated Safety Specialist with the 16th Military Police Brigade
Mang's dedication and commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of policing professionals within the 16th Military Police Brigade have made him an invaluable asset to the organization. Through his leadership, mentorship, and genuine care for his fellow soldiers, Mang has set a high standard for officer safety within the Fort Liberty and Fayetteville communities. His contributions serve as a testament to his expertise, authority, and trust within the field of law enforcement, making him a deserving recipient of accolades such as the Cumberland County Public Safety Awards.
Joshua Hopkins: The Epitome of Leadership and Service
Fort Liberty Fire Department and Emergency Services, Assistant Chief, Hopkins truly embodies the values of service before self, leadership, and community service. His dedication to both the Fort Liberty Fire Department and the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association sets a high standard for others to follow. Hopkins's compassion, integrity, and commitment to serving others make him a true asset to the community.
“The fire service prides itself upon the teamwork mindset and not upon the accomplishments of just one,” said Hopkins. “I feel that if I have accomplished anything of value in my time here at Fort Liberty, it is that I am effective at compiling the right team members to support the greater good of the community.”
Volunteer Firefighter Jose Firpi: A Remarkable Example of Dedication in Service
Firpi's exceptional dedication, experience, expertise, authority, and trustworthiness make him a truly outstanding member of the emergency services community. His unwavering commitment to serving others, coupled with his exemplary work ethic and leadership skills, set him apart as a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated first responder. Firpi's contributions to his community and his selfless devotion to his role as a firefighter and EMT make him a beacon of hope and reassurance in times of crisis. His exemplary service and steadfast commitment to excellence truly make him a hero in every sense of the word.
The Fort Liberty Traffic Accident Investigations Unit: Promoting Safety and Excellence
The Fort Liberty Traffic Accident Investigations Unit is a shining example of excellence within the law enforcement community. Through their commitment to safety, expertise in law enforcement tactics, and strong partnerships with other agencies, they play a vital role in promoting service and security in the Fort Liberty community. Their dedication and professionalism set a high standard for traffic accident response and investigations, ensuring that the residents of Fort Liberty are in safe hands.
Sgt. Andrew Morrison: A Lifesaving Warrior Responds to a Hit-And-Run
The response to the hit-and-run motorcycle accident by Morrison from the 108th Military Police Company exemplified the importance of timely and efficient actions in ensuring public safety and community well-being. By learning from his experience and implementing recommendations for improvement, law enforcement can continue to uphold its commitment to protecting and serving with excellence. The response to the hit-and-run incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of timely and decisive action in law enforcement. By learning from his experience and implementing necessary changes, one can strive to enhance their preparedness for future challenges and continue to uphold the values of safety, justice, and service to all.
Sgt. Thomas Bass: A Heroic Rescue and Courage Under Pressure
Bass's swift and decisive actions while performing his duties as an Assistant Patrol Supervisor at Fort Liberty exemplify the dedication and professionalism expected of law enforcement officers. In response to a call for service involving a woman in distress, Sgt. Bass's strategic approach and quick thinking played a crucial role in addressing the situation effectively.
Lt. William Gibson: Bravery on the Water Aids Capsized Victims
Gibson, a dedicated member of the Fort Liberty Department of Emergency Services, recently showcased his exemplary leadership and commitment to public safety during a critical rescue operation on Sharon Harris Lake in Chatham County. The quick actions of Gibson were instrumental in saving the lives of the three victims, who may have drowned or succumbed to hypothermia.
The Valor Awards not only recognize the outstanding contributions of current first responders but also serve as an inspiration for future generations. By showcasing stories of heroism and selflessness, these awards instill a sense of pride and motivation in aspiring first responders, encouraging them to follow in the footsteps of those being honored.
“Supporting our first responders is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of Cumberland County residents. These dedicated individuals courageously face challenging situations, often putting their lives on the line to protect us,” said CEO and President of Greater Fayetteville Chamber, Nat Robertson. “These dedicated individuals courageously face challenging situations, often putting their lives on the line to protect us.”
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