Published Apr. 30 in the Grayson County News Gazette

Firefighter answers the last call home

By GLORIA HAYNES
Grayson County News Gazette

LEITCHFIELD — As firefighters and emergency medical workers gathered Sunday afternoon to bid farewell to their brother in service, the warm, sunny day seemed to radiate the bright lingering personality of Cecil Hammons.

"This is not a mourning, but a celebration," said his wife of 42 years, Sallie. "It's sad for us because we're the ones left behind, but joyful for him to go home at last."

Hammons' life was indeed a celebration of helping others through pursuits of rescue in both firefighting and emergency medical service. After serving six years in the Air National Guard, he acted as sergeant for the Louisville Fire Department at Engine Company #1, and then went on to act as chief for the crash, fire and rescue unit at Standiford Field Airport. After a brief venture into goldfish farming, Hammons and his wife moved to nearby Breckinridge County where they took ownership of the McDaniels General Store in 1982. Again, the firefighter became involved, joining the McDaniels Fire and Rescue Department where he was chief for 15 years. He also worked diligently to help establish the area's Emergency Medical Service (EMS).

Always an innovator, Hammons brought the first ALS (Advanced Life Support) capability to Breckinridge County, as well as the first Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

"He never wanted to go very far from home," Sallie recalled. "He always worried something would happen to someone in the community."

After being diagnosed with bladder cancer in 1998, Hammons refused to give up his active lifestyle. Despite months of treatment, he continued to work. Extensive surgery in 2000 still couldn't stop his indomitable spirit. He continued to ride the ambulance and work at Lafayette Golf Course.

The Hammons moved to Grayson County in 2001. Hammons joined the EMS and remained on the roster until his death on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2003. His last run was logged on Jan. 20, 2003.

Grayson County EMS Director Kevin Pharis said in his eulogy for Hammons, "He pressed on, continuing to work even when it was difficult for him."

"It was only fitting," said Rev. Musial Pearson, "that after years of rescuing others, God came to rescue Cecil on Easter."

Additional eulogies remembered Hammons' inspirational presence in many lives, including those who looked to him for guidance in their lives and careers. His kindness was recalled through many selfless acts for the benefit of others.

In a final act of respect, Grayson and Breckinridge counties sounded a last call for their fellow hero. "Calling Badge # 306 . . . the last call for Cecil Hammons, Badge # 306." And with the last call, the badge and number were retired in honor and memory of Cecil Hammons.

Grayson County bagpiper Michael Cannon saluted Hammons with "Scotland The Brave," and Breckinridge County trumpeter Hope Carman played "Taps" as the two counties said "goodbye and thank you" to Cecil Hammons with the presentation of helmet, badge, plaque and American flag to his family.

In addition to his wife, Hammons is survived by son Bryan and daughter Becky; two grandchildren, Macie Hammons and Shannon Messer; mother and step-father Osa Mae and Gus Lagron; three brothers, Curtis, Paul and Douglas; three sisters, Elizabeth Masterson, Barbara Link and CJ Gilliam; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one sister, Patsy A. Koerner.

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