EAST RIDGE, Tenn. (WDEF) – News 12 is recognizing some of the bravest members of our community through the First Responders Hero Award.
Whether someone is an EMT, paramedic, firefighter, or police officer, this award honors their unwavering dedication to keeping our community safe.
When danger strikes, these men and women are the first to respond.
Now, it is our turn to put them first.
In partnership with Wettermark Keith, News 12 is proud to spotlight these courageous individuals.
This month, the community has nominated Captain Thomas Finch with the East Ridge Fire Rescue at Station 2.
Captain Thomas Finch has spent more than two decades serving the East Ridge community, building a career rooted in compassion, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose.
“Well, thank you very much. I appreciate the nomination, and I’m very humbled to receive something like this. After 22 years, it means a lot,” Finch stated.
Finch explained his journey into the fire service began with encouragement from friends who saw his potential early on.
“Well, I have a couple of friends that are firemen, and they kept telling me you would be a great fireman. They knew my personality and how I like to help a lot of people. After they encouraged me for a while, I decided to volunteer as a fireman to see if I really liked the job, and I did,” Finch explained.
He elaborated that after several months of volunteering and completing rookie school, he officially joined East Ridge Fire Rescue, where he has now served for 22 years.
Finch emphasized the importance of mentorship and camaraderie within the department, describing it as a family that supports one another through the challenges of the job.
“During the training, the guys here helped to train and mentor you. A lot of the older guys really felt like fathers to me because they were such impactful mentors as I learned. A lot of people come into this not really knowing if they are going to like it, but when they say it is like a big family, it really makes a difference,” Finch shared.
He added that while the job can expose first responders to difficult and emotional situations, it is also deeply rewarding to see people recover and improve after receiving help.
“We end up seeing a lot of bad things, but at the same time, we see people at their worst and we are there to help them out. It really means a lot when somebody comes back and they are doing better. You were there at their lowest point to help them,” Finch said.
Finch also credited his family for their continued support throughout his career, noting the sacrifices they have made along the way.
“My wife is pretty awesome, and she has always been encouraging as I have moved up the ranks and learned more. When I was a volunteer, she was very supportive, even though it was tough because I had a young son and was away from him. My wife and my son have both been very supportive, and my brothers and sisters have been supportive as well,” Finch expressed.
He also praised the East Ridge community, saying their support means everything to those who serve.
“The community here is great, and I like for them to know that there is always somebody behind them ready to help them out,” Finch added.
News 12 is honored to recognize Captain Thomas Finch for his years of service and commitment to protecting the community.
