SPENCER — When Hurricane Helene swept down across the mountains of western North Carolina, it didn’t take long for emergency responders across the state to begin to head to the area to offer help, and that included members of the Spencer Fire Department.

Under the leadership of Chief Michael Lanning, members from the department headed to the mountains within a week of the storm, and for the first night or two, they slept in hammocks attached to their truck, waiting for assignment to a place to be housed.

The team did not end up having to deploy a second time, but during the time Lanning and Captain Dakota Anderson, Captain Austin Waller, and firefighters Derek Walker and Kolby Smith were in the zone, they engaged in a variety of tasks to help those who had lost everything, from distributing supplies to helping clear roadways and driveways and helping reach those who had been cut off.

At Tuesday night’s board meeting, Lanning brought the entire team forward to present them with the department’s company citation for their efforts.

“Tonight I am honored to present the company citation award to an extraordinary team of individuals who have displayed the unmatched courage, resilience and dedication during one of the most challenging times our state has ever faced,” Lanning told the board. “Hurricane Helene affected countless lives and disrupted daily routines and in moments like these it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenge. But this team stood tall and responded with grace, strength and an unwavering sense of duty. They put their comforts aside, sacrificing personal time and safety to support those in need. From providing emergency relief, to ensuring that essential services continued amidst the chaos, this crew’s actions went far beyond expectations. They exemplified what it means to serve and protect, no matter the cost. Their dedication to the mission was inspiring, whether they were coordinating with emergency responders, distributing essential supplies or helping to restore services and infrastructure, they handled themselves with professionalism, compassion and efficiency. What truly sets this team apart is its unity. In times of a disaster, we all can see the strength of these individuals. But this team demonstrated that the real power lies in collaboration. They came together, supported one another, and faced all the challenges not as individuals but as a unified force to make a difference in the lives of so many. Bravery and selflessness shown by each member of this team reminds me what it means not only to be a member of this organization, but an integral part of a larger organization in this community.”

Lanning praised the four men with setting “a shining example,” and said their efforts have made a lasting difference in many lives.

But he added praise for the members of his department who remained behind, who made sure the town was safely covered in the absence of the five deployed team members.

After Lanning’s presentation, Town Manager Peter Franzese came forward to present the same citation to Lanning, saying “you were right there among the group that deployed and setting an example for the department, so we appreciate and honor your efforts as well.”

In addition to the recognitions, Lanning also made another announcement that “has been a long time coming and that has taken a lot of stress off of me.” He introduced Engineer Jacob Keever, who joined the department two weeks ago, and the final addition to the now fully staffed department.

“I’m hoping he plans to spend the rest of his career here, because that’s my plan,” Lanning quipped.