The Murfreesboro Police Department, Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue Department, and the City of Murfreesboro honors local public safety Telecommunicators, the "first" first responders, this week in recognition of National Telecommunicators Week. National Emergency Telecommunicators Week was started in 1981 to put a special focus on public safety telecommunication professionals for their contributions to the safety and security of communities around the world. 

To honor the Department’s dispatchers, a ceremony was held today at the Murfreesboro Police Department. Assistant City Manager Jennifer Moody presented a City Proclamation declaring this week "Telecommunicators Week" to Police and Fire officials. 

Telecommunicator Marty Gillihan was chosen as the 2018 Telecommunicator of the year for his service to the community. Communications Director Seth Russel stated "Marty is the definition of a team player; he always is willing and ready to jump in and help fellow dispatchers, officers, or firemen. He genuinely cares about the citizens that call in and goes the extra mile to provide assistance". Murfreesboro Police Chief Mike Bowen and Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Chief Mark Foulks also thanked Marty for his untiring dedication and heart for service. 

Photo Caption:  Seth Russell, 9-1-1 Communications Director, congratulations Marty Gillahan as Tellecommunicator of the Year.  Also pictured, Gillahan's wife Stefanie Gillahan, and daughtger Hayley. (Photo by Jim Davis)