Last week on Thursday morning, Randy Rutherford and myself were invited to the Tyler County EMS command center. Tom Cooper has for many years worked to build and develop the county’s agency to assist any emergency service or situation that may arise within his county.

During the COVID time, Tom led the efforts to organize and make arrangements for the citizens to have access to needs when venturing into public places was not advised. From dispatching medicine to food or transportation, Tom directed the county’s resources to serve its citizens.

During an interview with the area commander of the State Guard, he described Tom as a gift to Tyler County. No matter the need, Tom had things in place when teams showed up for vaccine clinics or food distribution. Tom explained during our interview that he graduated on Friday and went to work on Monday, beginning the long journey to his current position.

During our meeting Tom shared how to access the county’s web-page. On the site, anyone can find up to date weather information, power outages, lightning strikes or river water levels. There is also a list of contact information for the different agencies in the county.

Tom’s dedicated attention has resulted in Tyler County becoming a hub for emergency equipment. Within storage at the old Corning Building, is a large variety of agency equipment that may be needed for any disaster or county wide hazardous event. Tom constantly reviews for available grants and programs the government offers to be used by state and county agencies.

Tom’s advice to county citizens, “Find the County EMS web page and become familiar with it. That way in the future individuals can find information for themselves in real time.”