An Award for the Smith County Fire Marshal

TYLER – Smith County Fire Marshal Connie McCoy-Wasson has received the J B Smith Award for Service. The award from the Greater Tyler Association of Realtors, was presented at the 24th Annual First Responders Appreciation Dinner at the Rose Garden. not only was she shocked to receive the award, she was also shocked when it was presented to her by her brother, Tyler Police Officer Wayne Thomas. The award winner is nominated each year by fellow first responders in the Greater Tyler Association of Realtors’ jurisdiction. This includes Smith, Wood, Cherokee and Franklin counties. The recipient must have a minimum of 20 years of experience with exceptional performance throughout their career.

They must also make a positive impact on their community and conduct themselves in a professional manner, always treating individuals with respect and dignity. They must also exhibit leadership and provide inspiration to others and must have demonstrated characteristics of public service and professional achievement.

Mrs. McCoy-Wasson was hired as a secretary by Charles Shine, Smith County’s first Fire Marshal. She soon started to go to fires with him and realized she wanted to learn how to become a firefighter. Mrs. McCoy-Wasson went to school and earned her certifications to become a firefighter, investigator and inspector, as well as earning her peace officer license.