FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 12, 2025
Being recognized by your peers for your outstanding work is pretty special. Being singled out by your organization’s director for a new annual award is even more significant.
Lookout Mountain native Kerry Phillips, 34, said he is “humbled” to be given the Georgia Forestry Commission’s 2024 Director’s Award. This is the first time the honor has been presented to a GFC employee for their performance excellence.
Phillips has been serving as Acting Chief Ranger for GFC’s Dade County Unit for the past year. He stepped into the role after a harrowing wildfire accident injured his predecessor early last year.
“Kerry Phillips didn’t waste a second when he jumped off his bulldozer to help his co-worker,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo. “Our Dade County chief ranger was pinned under a fallen tree. Kerry’s fast and skilled response to the injury undoubtedly prevented a bad situation from getting worse – all while other team members continued battling the wildfire.”
Phillips previously served as a volunteer firefighter in Dade County, GA., where he was named 2007 Firefighter of the Year. He joined GFC as a ranger in 2012 and earned his Emergency Medical Technician certification in 2016. Phillips was one of six employees nominated by their peers to be chosen for this special honor.
The Director’s Award recognizes Phillips’ ability to manage emergency situations, especially as the north Georgia drought worsened and wildfire conditions increased. His leadership in Dade County ensured operations continuity, though faced with numerous geographical, demographical, and political challenges. He is credited for working tirelessly on region-wide projects and trainings, and contributing to important leadership initiatives. Phillips is well known for his professionalism and his commitment to the wildland firefighter core values of duty, respect, and integrity.
Phillips, an avid hunting and fishing enthusiast, said he is flattered to receive the 2024 GFC Director’s Award. “To be the first one to get it is a real honor,” he said. “You should always enjoy your job, and I enjoy everything about mine.”
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The Georgia Forestry Commission is a state agency whose mission is to provide leadership, service, and education to protect and conserve Georgia’s forest resources. For more information, visit GaTrees.org.