VIDEO: Going beyond the call of duty. That’s what Augusta Fire/EMA did Wednesday for one of their own. Firefighters gifted retired shift commander Christopher Reid with a golf cart. Reid fought for his life on a respirator during a COVID-19 diagnosis. He has since recovered, but the lingering effects impacted his mobility.
The surprise planned for Reid happened at Station 1. For 43 years, it was like another home for the chief. However, COVID-19 forced him to say goodbye earlier than anticipated. For the long road of recovery ahead, his fellow firefighters gifted wheels and newfound freedom.
“It hadn’t sunk in…It’s hard to believe. You know, that’s big, this is big.” said Christopher Reid.
“I mean, it’s one of those things where we try to look out for each other.” said Lieutenant Daniel Rigdon.
For Reid, the gift means much more than a ride.